The EUTC’s production of Art by Yasmina Reza and translated by Christopher Hampton is a convincing comedy with skilled performances. The play follows three friends: the self-assured Serge (Reuben Stickland), cynical Marc (Rufus Goodman), and people-pleasing Yvan (Daniel Solomon). Serge’s new artistic purchase of an almost completely white canvas sparks an increasingly fired-up debate with his old friend Marc. Their “tolerant” and “eccentric,” but also vulnerable, friend Yvan gets roped into the debate as the three friends dismantle their relationship.
Each of the three actors provides a brilliant but clearly distinct performance. Solomon is excellent as Yvan, initially as someone who seems to be in their own world, fanciful and not entirely present. Solomon’s energy is contagious, speaking in outbursts and skittishly jumping about. A particularly hilarious moment involves essentially a monologue by Yvan describing an exchange with his fiancée, her step-mother and his mother, showcasing a range of impressions.
The three actors are skilled with the comedic aspect; at another point Goodman impersonates Stickland’s Serge, really hammering home the festering resentment that we are presented with, while overlaying it with audience laughter. Goodman especially embodies the role, carrying Marc’s resentment on his shoulders. To contrast, Stickland is poised and precise in his movements, matching the suit he wears.
At one point in the play, Marc ponders at what binds him and Yvan together, and I realised that I was wondering the same about the three characters on the stage. While the three actors shine individually, when the three of them are on the stage together, they come across as too distinct and act more as individuals rather than playing into each other so much. The set however is dynamic and lively, dividing these three distinct personalities into thirds of the stage.
The EUTC’s production of Art is a deeply funny comedy, but also a tense exploration of friendship and what holds it together.
Photo by Marla MacCallum Hall.