Richard Roxburgh, Damon Herriman, and Toby Schmitz star in the wickedly funny play 'Art', a thought-provoking exploration of male friendship and the complexities of human relationships. The play, written by French playwright Yasmina Reza, centers around Marc, Serge, and Yvan, whose lives are turned upside down by a simple painting. But here's where it gets controversial... The play's recent Broadway and London runs, featuring Neil Patrick Harris, James Corden, and Rufus Sewell, have sparked conversations about the nature of art and the value of friendship. And this is the part most people miss... In the new Australian production, translated by Christopher Hampton and directed by Lee Lewis, Roxburgh plays the abrasive Marc, Herriman is the status-seeking Serge, and Schmitz portrays the meek Yvan. The cast's real-life friendship adds depth to their on-stage dynamic, as they navigate the challenges of their characters' relationships. But what does it mean to be a friend? The play delves into this question, highlighting the importance of trust, honesty, and shared experiences in long-standing friendships. And this is the part most people miss... Technology and the male loneliness epidemic also play a role in the story, as the characters grapple with the changes in their friendships due to the lack of technology in the 1990s. The play's relevance is further emphasized by the 'male loneliness epidemic', where men have been found to lean mostly upon their women partners for emotional support. Despite the play's controversial themes, it is a must-watch for anyone interested in the complexities of human relationships and the power of art to move us. So, if you haven't seen it yet, don't be too honest with your friends about it just yet. Preferably a year after, or maybe a decade later. Then they can say, 'You know that [play you were in]? I just didn't get it'.
