Review: ART at Theatre Three

Continuing a stellar 49th season, Port Jefferson's Theatre Three offers a wonderful incarnation of Yasmina Reza's play Art. A Tony winner for Best Play in 1998, this production is strongly directed by Long Island theatre vet Linda May and boasts a wonderful cast of Theatre Three regulars.

One of the messages in the tale raises questions about who says what "art" really is which is certainly fitting nowadays since everyone seems to be an expert on something. It also goes into friendship and the respect it deserves, which is also still appropriate for today.

The story revolves around three friends: Marc portrayed by Antoine Jones, Serge portrayed by Steve Ayle, and Yvan portrayed by Matt Senese. Serge has just purchased a very expensive painting that he believes is absolutely remarkable. This painting has a white background with a few white stripes along the bottom and it does not sit well with Marc that his friend has made such, in his opinion, a reckless purchase. And poor Yvan, who maintains neutrality, ends up in the quarrel as well. The cast works well together with the resounding approval of the enthusiastic audience. A couple of fleeting moments did seem to come up flat, but it is apparent that overall everyone thoroughly enjoys the well-timed and delivered comedy.

On the clever creative team, Randall Parsons' set is well done. We visit the apartments of the three gentlemen and even though it is only one set (no pieces are moved), you are able to differentiate the apartments in the different scenes of the one-act show. This is very effective as it allows the messages of the tale to be at the forefront. The costumes are relevant business casual attire which is ideal as this is a story that ages well. This is enhanced by Robert W. Henderson's atmospheric lighting design especially during each of the monologues.

And so, Art is certainly a hit for Theatre Three. An important message and a great cast make this a moving night of theatre.

Art is presented by Theatre Three of Port Jefferson through February 2nd. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

By Yazmina Reza, Directed by Linda May, Scenic Design by Randall Parsons, Costume Design by Teresa Matteson, Lighting Design by Robert W. Henderson, Jr., Stage Management by Alissa Graber

Starring Antoine Jones, Steve Ayle, and Matt Senese

Photo courtesy of Theatre Three