ART

by Yasmina Reza

Translated by Christopher Hampton

Directed by Stephan Golux




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                                                             From the Clinton County Record, Wednesday, July 16, 2003

A Work of "Art" At Millbrook Playhouse

By Melissa Lewis
Staff Writer

MILL HALL -- The Millbrook Playhouse Cabaret is on fire this season. On the heels of "Shakin' the Mess Outta' Misery," the latest offering in the small intimate theatre is, certainly, not a let-down.

"Art" was the winner of the 1998 Tony Award for best play and is a high-energy comedy by Yasmina Reza. As the title suggests, the play deals with the topic of what is, or is not, art, but it runs deeper than that. "Art" also deals with the dynamics and differences in friendship and, indeed, life, itself.

Craig Bentley (Marc), Matthew Lawler (Yvan) and Corey Patrick (Serge) are a talented and intense trio of actors and do a fine job at creating believable relationships. It seems as if these gentlemen have been friends for years. It is a typical friendship trio, with different pairs of the friends teaming up against the other at the drop of a hat. It is a constant tug-of-war, and the guys handle it brilliantly through the use of timing and tension.

"Art" flows nicely, using dialogue and asides in order to express each actor's inner feelings. Director Stephan Golux, has, without a doubt, gotten the most out of this wonderful script.

A high point in the evening was Matthew Lawler's mother-in-law speech. The audience was hysterical with laughter throughout, as Lawler delivered the fast-paced monologue with the skill of some of the great comedic actors.

The set complimented this play, with its black and white theme and modern lines, framing the idea of the uncompromising ideas of the three friends. The quick lighting changes were also well executed.

"Art" is a delight. Take your friend - or maybe two friends - to this show. I can pretty much guarantee you will see yourselves on stage.