A brand new production of the multi-award-winning comedy 'Art' by Yasmina Reza is set to take the stage at Theatr Clwyd. Staged by Disley Theatrical Productions, the play will run at the venue's studio theatre, Theatr Weston, from Wednesday, July 15 to Saturday, July 18, with performances at 7:45pm each evening. A matinee performance will also take place on Saturday, July 18 at 2:45pm. The production is directed by Simon Phillips.
A Dark Comedy About Friendship
Described as a dark comedy that explores the limits of friendship, 'Art' tells the story of three friends named Marc, Serge, and Yvan. The plot unfolds after Serge buys a very expensive painting—a canvas about 5ft by 4ft, all white with white diagonal lines. To Marc, the painting is a joke, but Serge insists his friend lacks the proper standard to judge the work. Their other friend, Yvan, allows himself to be pulled into this disagreement despite being burdened by his own problems. Eager to please, Yvan tells Serge he likes the painting. Lines are drawn, and these old friends square off over the canvas, using the artwork as an excuse to relentlessly batter one another over various failures.
Award-Winning Legacy
Originally a French language play, 'Art' was translated into English by Christopher Hampton. The translation premiered at Wyndham’s Theatre in London on October 15, 1996, directed by Matthew Warchus, featuring Albert Finney, Tom Courtenay, and Ken Stott. On March 1, 1998, the play premiered on Broadway at the Royale Theatre, also directed by Warchus, with Alan Alda, Victor Garber, and Alfred Molina. The show ran for over six years in the West End, featuring a host of star names before closing on January 3, 2003. The final West End cast famously comprised Reece Shearsmith, Steve Pemberton, and Mark Gatiss from The League of Gentlemen.
Producer's Excitement
Producer Luke Disley said: “This play is award-winning for a reason. Best New Comedy at the Oliviers, and it won the Tony for Best New Play. In rehearsals, I’ve been able to see exactly why. The premise is simple, the setting is simple, the relationships are anything but. The cast is as strong as you will find in the North Wales area. It’s been brilliant to see them bouncing off one another in rehearsals, collaborating on making these complex characters come to life. The audience at Theatr Clwyd is in for a real treat, we cannot wait to get this amazing piece of work in front of them.”
Booking Information
Full details of the show can be found at the Theatr Clwyd website, where tickets can be booked online. Alternatively, theatregoers can contact the Theatr Clwyd Box Office on 01352 344101. Are you planning a night out to see this award-winning comedy at Theatr Clwyd? Location: Mold, Flintshire.
