'Art' by Yasmina Reza

A translation of a French-language play, 'Art' is set in Paris and revolves around a discussion between three friends--Serge, Marc and Yvan. 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 toward 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.

‘Art’ serves as a powerful commentary on the complexities of human relationships. Reza skillfully portrays how art evokes emotions that intertwine with personal history. The play encapsulates the spirit of friendship—its trials, tribulations, joys, and sorrows. Through humor and conflict, ‘Art’ invites audiences to reflect on their friendships, challenging them to question the balance between honesty and affection. Ultimately, Reza’s work paints a vivid picture of how a single art purchase can ripple through a friendship, exposing its vulnerabilities. The play achieves the remarkable feat of remaining relevant to audiences, urging them to confront the uncomfortable truths about their own relationships. In doing so, ‘Art’ succeeds as both an entertaining performance and a poignant exploration of modern friendship, leaving audiences with more questions than answers.

'Art' is produced by The Actor's Center of Asheville, led by Instructor and professional working actor, .

The Actor’s Center Of Asheville is dedicated to helping students better understand the craft of acting on a professional level. Students explore their potential through scene study, improvisation, character development and much more. The Actor’s Center of Asheville offers Acting classes, Audition shooting, & coaching, workshops, One on One Private Coaching for film, television, commercials, industrials, performance, singing, & even songwriting.

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Tickets are $20. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. Seating is general admission, first come first served. Online ticket sales end 1 hour prior to showtime. There may still be tickets available for purchase in the office after online sales have ended. Please call BMCA at 828-669-0930 for more information.

Host or Publisher Black Mountain Center for the Arts