Art

Play

Writers: Yasmina Reza

Overview

Show Information

Category
Play
Number of Acts
1
Tony Award®
Best Play 1998
First Produced
1994
Genres
Comedy
Settings
Contemporary, Unit/Single Set
Time & Place
An apartment in Paris, 1990s
Cast Size
small
Licensor
Ideal for
All-Male Cast, College/University, Community Theatre, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Small Cast
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes adult, mature adult characters

Synopsis

A translation of a French-language play, Art is set in Paris and revolves around a discussion between three friends--Serge, Marc and Yvan. When Serge buys a large and very expensive painting for 200,000 francs. However, the canvas is completely white with just a few white lines. While Serge is very proud of his latest painting, the reaction of his friends does not mirror his own sentiments. Marc responds with shock and anger, labeling it as a “piece of white sh#t”. But does he dislike the painting, or Serge’s independent thought? In turn, Yvan acts as the peacemaker, trying to mediate the hostility between his friends. While he laughs about the ridiculous nature of the painting with Marc, he also reassures Serge that he likes the white canvas. However, his attempts at brokering peace fail and Serge and Marc’s anger is redirected him. As the discussion moves from the theoretical to the personal, the three friends are forced to ask questions not only about the nature of art, but about the nature of friendship. As they attack each other about their various personal failures, Serge, Marc, and Yvan risk ruining their friendship forever.

Lead Characters


Art guide sections