THE SUNDAY MAIL

Nothing beautiful was ever created through rational argument

In an ambitious effort to create something fractionally as beautiful as Yasmina Reza’s Art, I will leave out any rational debate in the following text. Simply put, you must see it…

The result is laugh out loud clap hard, and for most who can relate to the intricate workings of a long term friendship, an uncomfortable shifting in your seat…

Alpha square’s production of Art succeeds in bringing these issues to the foreground through headed debate and snide commentary without losing any of the humour or the audience…

“It began with deconstruction”, says Marc in a soliloquy on the rapid deterioration of his long standing friendship with Segre. With the purchase of the minimalist white on white canvas interspersed with fine white diagonal lines, Serge is making a break from his traditional protégé role. Marc’s insecurity of losing his long-term mentor status ensures the deconstruction of their relationship is well underway as the play opens…

And when both appeal to Yvan, their mutual acquaintance, the sparks begin to fly. Yvan is a well-meaning husband-to-be suffering from years of loneliness and psychiatric evaluation. Described ‘as the great reconciler of humanity’, he is alternately belittled and ignored by the others…

But his well-meant interventions and hysterical monologues, especially the ‘stepmother’ one (you’ll know that I mean when you see it), ensure that the dialogue leaps from crisis to crisis, taking in three very opposing points of view, rancour and wit.

The director Penny Loizou, describes Art as a platform for the dynamics of friendship, painting becoming just a point of reference. A well-established actor and director herself, she praises the energy and talent of the cast and crew, including the expertise of set designer Melita Couta: “She visualised my conception of how it should be.” The resulting set consists of stark lines and colours with a minimalist white background, making for a perfect backdrop to the complex issues of modern art.

Penny’s wealth of experience leads Andreas (the delightfully cynical Marc) to confess: “It was a relief to be under her direction.” Paul’s neurotic depiction of Serge’s new love, the “Antrios”, is very believable. The canvas is not seen as just a work of art but a way of life typified by the way Serge meticulously prepares to display the picture… Demetri’s portrayal of Yvan is delivered with eccentricity and understanding…

A talented member of Cyprus’ theatrical set, Andreas is responsible for the self-confessed “ambitious endeavour” which began with the inception of ‘alpha square’. He began the venture with the aim of further enriching English language theatre in Cyprus, bringing together amateur and professional, local and foreign talent. “I think there is an audience for English language theatre here. Theatre needs to be well marketed in Cyprus” he says.

Art is Alpha Square’s first production and the venture appears to be off to an auspicious start. Staged in the intimate surroundings of Theatro Ena, a packed house burst at the seams on the opening night. The group have had three successful nights so far and are planning another seven in Nicosia and one night in Limassol.

By Stefanos Evripidou
The Sunday Mail
14-20 September 2003