JLife reports on the opening night of Art, playing at The Grand Theatre Leeds all week…
Winner of Olivier, Tony and Moliere theatre awards, Art is one of the most successful comedies ever. Art is an original and clever play, centred around a painting. But not a normal painting, this one’s white (on white). And to be honest, its more about the three characters, on stage throughout, this is a breath-taking show with three much-loved actors at the top of their games.
The plot is essentially that Serge (Nigel Havers) has spent £200,000 on a painting. His friend Marc (Denis Lawson) is concerned, well outraged actually, and goes to tell their mutual friend, Yvan (Stephen Tomkinson) to see what he thinks. A three-pronged dog fight occurs, talking everything from lifestyles, taste, money and women. Yasmina Reza’s dazzling study of friendship, prejudice and tolerance.
The Grand Theatre opening night had the audience laughing throughout at both the witty dialogue and the actors’ timing, and the writing is razor sharp, being both funny and well executed by the experienced actors. Tomkinson steals the show though, especially during his wedding monologue. Last seen by many on TV as DCI Banks, he truly showed his versatility here.
These remarkable performances brought this debate to life. As to be expected, it’s not really about art. It observes our attitudes to life and how everything just a matter of looking with your own point of view, be it a masterpiece or a life experience. Making the conversation about a puzzling painting is coincidental, but inspired.
Exhibiting until the 7th April at the Leeds Grand Theatre, you can get tickets to see Art, here: Leedsgrandtheatre.com.