Modern comedy classic opens in Athlone this weekend
What does Succession's Brian Cox have in common with the late, great English actor Albert Finney, Tom Courtenay, Stephen Tompkinson of 'Ballykissangel' fame and the stars of RTE's hit 90s series 'Bachelors Walk'?
All of them have appeared in 'Art' by Yasmina Reza, now considered one of the most successful comedies ever staged and a bona fide modern classic.
The good news for local drama fans is that the multi-award-winning French play, translated by Christopher Hampton, is on the way to Athlone Little Theatre from March 9-16, with a Sunday matinee only on March 10 at 3pm.
In her play revolving around three friends living in Paris, Yasmina Reza asks the question - are you who you think you are, or are you who your friends think you are? Serge (Ronan Flynn) has bought a modern painting, a large white canvas for a huge sum of money. Marc (Pat Canty) hates the painting and cannot believe that a friend of his could possibly want such a work. Yvan (Martin Kelleher) attempts to placate both sides with hilarious consequences.
Renowned theatre critic Michael Billington called 'Art' sharp, witty and clever, while another reviewer simply said “'Art' makes you laugh. Art makes you question what and how you think.”
First premiered in Paris in 1994, 'Art' transferred to London in 1996, and over the following three decades its themes of art as a test of love and friendship have had enduring appeal with audiences.
“Art is a funny and engrossing play. Our three leading actors are going to dazzle you with some French humour and great talent,” said co-directors Hélène Lepaon and Paddy Martin. “If you want to see a play about art, friendship and have some laughs, Athlone Little Theatre is the place to be from March 9 to 16,” they added.
As is tradition, the first night of the play run benefits a local charity. This time around Athlone Little Theatre is happy to announce that Lough Ree RNLI is the chosen charity.
Please note tickets for the first night can only be purchased from RNLI members directly and not on the website. Call or message 087 6471301 for tickets for the opening night on March 9.
Book your tickets for all other nights on www.athlonelittletheatre.ie or via Eventbrite.