Marc (David Sinaiko) and Serge (Benoît Monin)
Shotgun Players’ superb production of Yasmina Reza’s “Art” is a laugh-out-loud, thought-provoking experience that leaves audiences reflecting on their relationships.
An Olivier, Tony, and Molière award-winning play, “Art” is a dark comedy about three long-time friends whose differing perspectives on a single all-white abstract painting threaten to unravel their bond. Shotgun Players’ production, directed by the insightful Emile Whelan, delivers a sharp and hilarious examination of friendship, ego, and the subjective nature of taste.
Art is one of the most uniquely subjective experiences we encounter. One person may find an abstract painting not only beautiful, but also profound. In contrast, another may see it as random splashes of color a kindergartener could create. For instance, as my mom and I stood before abstract artist Ellsworth Kelly’s painting—a simple red circle on a white background—she blurted out, “That looks like a stain on my kitchen tile!” That moment reinforced how deeply personal art interpretation is. Yet people voice hurtful opinions about an artist’s work.
What happens when your opinion on art clashes with your closest friends, friends you’ve had for fifteen years? That question is at the heart of “Art.”
Set in Paris, the play follows Serge (Benoît Monin), Marc (David Sinaiko), and Yvan (Woody Harper).
Serge purchases an all-white painting for an astonishing sum. Marc openly ridicules it. He calls it “a piece of white shit.” Serge is deeply offended. He prides himself on his sophisticated artistic taste.
Yvan—the perpetually diplomatic friend—tries to mediate, reasoning, “He is happy, and can afford it, and not hurting anybody.” His attempt at peacemaking only adds fuel to the tensions when Marc retorts, “He’s hurting me!”
The acting is superb.
Pieces of Scenic Designer Randy Wong-Westbrooke’s minimalist set literally fall apart—a light drops from the wall, a chair collapses. Serge frantically tries to Scotch Tape them back together, mirroring the trio’s desperate attempts to repair their crumbling friendship. The production is cleverly staged, featuring modern movable set pieces that transition seamlessly between the characters’ homes. Gabriel Rodriguez’s lighting design focuses attention on the actors, heightening the drama and humor in their interactions.
David Sinaiko’s portrayal of Marc, his unwavering superior opinions, generate constant humor. Yet beneath his bluntness lies an underlying fear of change—and of losing his “mentor” status in the friendship.
Benoît Monin brings depth to Serge, the proud new owner of the controversial painting. Serge’s intellectual snobbery, now partnered with his insecurity, exposes his need for his friends’ approval. His roller-coaster clashes with Marc unfolds much of the play’s message.
Yvan (Woody Harper), Serge (Benoît Monin), Marc (David Sinaiko)
Woody Harper’s Yvan is a standout. His frenetic energy and desperate attempts to mediate are maddening. His monologue about the chaos surrounding his impending wedding leaves the audience in uproarious laughter. Yet his personal crisis—his inability to form firm opinions—Is a welcoming contrast to his headstrong friends.
Whelan’s direction brings a sharp eye to the themes of masculinity, ego, and the fragility of human connection. Choreographer Graham Bear innovated movement between the three men with physical comedy—including a brilliantly staged fight scene by Brandon DiPaola—adds to the hilarity. The comedy gives way to deeper revelations as the play unfolds. It exposes old wounds and the unspoken power struggles that exist in the closest male friendships.
How do they resolve this awkward and sensitive situation? The ending is a complete surprise. A must see.
Shotgun Players’ production of “Art” is an incisive exploration of friendship, art, and human nature.
“Art” by Yasmina Reza, directed by Emile Whelan, translation by Christopher Hampton at Shotgun Players at the Ashby Stage– www.shotgunplayers.org through April 6, 2025
Cast: Woody Harper, Benoît Monin, David Sinaiko
Photos by David Boyll