(Left to right: Devin Hall, Gabriel Brunk and Michael Bodner). In a review of "Art," the Mail in London said, "That such a simple plot can throw up such profound and meaty ideas about the rules that dictate art and friendship is a real treat. The real pleasures come from Reza's creation of three beautifully defined, original characters…" Photo by Molly Kraybill.

An “Art”istic Comedy

How much would you pay for a white painting? Would it matter who the painter was? Would it be art?

These questions and more will be explored as Eastern Mennonite University’s (EMU) theater department presents, “Art,” by Yasmina Reza, Feb. 17, 18, 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m. Directed by Julia King, Art will be performed in the Margaret Martin Gehman Art Gallery in University Commons.

EMU Theater Presents 'Art'
EMU Theater presents 'Art,' a comedy about art and friendship, in the Margaret Martin Gehman Art Gallery in University Commons. The performance is part of the theater program

The comedy raises questions about art and friendship, revolving around three friends, Serge, Marc and Yvan. The purchase of a white painting tests the friendship of Sarge and Marc and puts Yvan squarely in the middle. Hilarity ensues as the trio navigates questions about relationships, how we create friendships and what we have to offer.

“In staging the production in the art gallery everyone gets a ring-side seat,” said King. “The audience becomes the art work on the walls, examining these three friends as they self-destruct and eventually come to terms with what it means to be friends.”

Art is the winner of the 1998 Tony Award for Best Play and 1996 Olivier Award for Best Comedy.

Tickets and more information

Tickets are $5 for general admission or $2 for EMU Students. They are available through the theater department, 540-432-4674 or email theater@emu.edu. Tickets can be purchased with cash or check only.

Performances will run approximately ninety minutes.

Information regarding age-appropriateness for EMU events is available through the EMU theater office at 540-432-4360 or theater@emu.edu

Cast

Michael Bodner, junior from Millersville, Pa./Lancaster Mennonite High School

Gabriel Brunk, a senior from Harrisonburg, Va./Eastern Mennonite High School

Devin Hall, a junior from Halifax, Va./Halifax High School