The play "Art," a 1994 satire by French writer Yasmina Reza, explores the dynamics of male friendship following one character's purchase of an all-white painting. This acquisition leads to an argument between Marc, Serge, and their friend Yvan. The play has received Tony and Olivier awards and has been staged with various notable actors globally.
Australian Production Unveils "Art"
A new Australian production, translated by Christopher Hampton and directed by Lee Lewis, features:
- Richard Roxburgh as Marc
- Damon Herriman as Serge
- Toby Schmitz as Yvan
Richard Roxburgh noted that the play interrogates the impact of unexpected changes within a friendship group and challenges its power dynamics. Yasmina Reza, who won an Olivier for best new comedy for "Art" in 1997, expressed surprise, stating she believed she had written a tragedy.
Yasmina Reza, who won an Olivier for best new comedy for "Art" in 1997, expressed surprise, stating she believed she had written a tragedy.
Damon Herriman was drawn to the stage opportunity to perform opposite Roxburgh. Toby Schmitz has expressed a desire to star in "Art" since reading it in the late 1990s, describing it as a unique work from the 90s that explores friendship and art with humor and depth.
Real-Life Bonds Fuel On-Stage Confrontation
Cast members of this Australian production share decades of real-life friendship, having worked together previously in various projects. This existing trust is considered beneficial when portraying characters who engage in confrontational dialogue on stage.
Toby Schmitz highlighted the importance of trust in acting, stating that years of shared trust provide a strong foundation for actors to depict their characters' conflicts.
Damon Herriman suggested that humor, honesty, and trust are essential for long-standing friendships, alongside the ability to comfortably sit in silence. Richard Roxburgh added patience as a valued quality in friendship.
Diverse Perspectives on Art and Its Value
Richard Roxburgh recounted how his perception of American abstract artist Mark Rothko's paintings changed after seeing them in a gallery, realizing they contained a multitude of colors beyond simple fields of color. He views art as something that prompts different thinking and evokes emotion.
In the play, characters hold varying views on art, reflected in their home decor: Serge owns an abstract painting, Marc prefers a figurative landscape, and Yvan possesses what Marc and Serge describe as a "daub."
The actors themselves primarily own art created by friends or friends' relatives. Damon Herriman stated he often purchases work from artist siblings of his friends. Toby Schmitz mentioned buying pieces from Archibald finalist Oliver Watts and German artist Danny Gretscher. He also expressed a dream of acquiring a Norman Rockwell painting or a collection of rare comic books, and a desire to support emerging artists.
Timeless Themes: Friendship in a Changing World
The play's exploration of male friendship is relevant amid discussions about a "male loneliness epidemic." Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare in 2023 indicated higher levels of social isolation and loneliness among men aged 55 to 64 compared to women.
Toby Schmitz acknowledged the play's current resonance but emphasized its timelessness, suggesting it would be relevant in any era.
Richard Roxburgh noted the impact of technology on modern friendships, contrasting the 1990s setting of "Art" where people had to directly communicate to resolve issues. He values the beauty of human beings having to solve problems face-to-face, especially in an age where people are increasingly "siloed."
Tour Dates and Locations
"Art" is being performed at Roslyn Packer Theatre, Sydney, until March 8. Following its Sydney run, the production will tour in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide.