BWW Reviews: The Denver Center Presents Artistic Amusement with A WEEKEND WITH PABLO PICASSO

From the moment that we entered the theater, we were surrounded by art and I loved the unique idea to have live art being created in the gallery from the Art Students League of Denver. This was a great way to build anticipation for the show and I hope they have that every night. This show was ultimately a thoughtful and respectful portrayal of this iconic artist and really delved into his life, love, and the tortured artistic and ideological pursuit of happiness. I loved his interaction with the audience and they just ate it up. This show really was a magical historical ride that carried the audience along for a fantastic evening of art and theater. Herbert Siguenza was the perfect medium for this role and was just quirky and magnetic. His performance as Pablo Picasso was absolutely captivating and charming; and I have to applaud him for keeping the entire audience engaged by himself for an hour and a half with ease and a twinkle in his eye. In addition to his wonderful performance, he must also be commended for this lovely script that shed a tender light on this great artistic icon. And if that wasn't enough, Mr. Siguenza is also quite a gifted artist and created fantastic replications of Picasso to the awe of the audience

Scenic and costume designer Giulio Perrone was spot on with his interpretation of Picasso's villa cluttered with his mad genius and I just loved his attention to detail. I also appreciated his costume choices that were so representative of Picasso (loved the stripes). There were several lighting effects by resident designer Charles R. MacLeod and were excellent. The sound design and composition Bruno Louchouarn enhanced this lovely show and I adored the music. The projection design by Victoria Petrovich brought such contrast to this show and give it a fascinating element and righteous dimension. Director Todd Salovey worked closely with Herbert Siguenza to make sure that his homage to the great Picasso was a superb one and the constant movement made the show flow effortlessly.

If you have a love for visual arts, art history or for fun and quirky and eclectic performances, then you do not want to miss this little gem at the Denver Center. Get a live lesson in art with A WEEKEND WITH PABLO PICASSO, fascinating audiences now through April 28th at the Ricketson Theatre now through April 28th. For tickets or more information, contact the Denver Center box office 303.893.4100 or online at www.denvercenter.org.

PHOTO CREDIT: Jennifer M Koskinen

PICTURED BELOW: Herbert Siguenza as Pablo Picasso