(L to R) Bruce Randolph Nelson as Serge, Tony K Nam as Yvan), and Kyle Prue as Marc. Photo by Teresa Castracane Photography.
“Art,” the 1994 play by Yasmina Reza, seems to be having a moment right now. A limited-run revival of the show is currently on Broadway, featuring big name actors (Bobby Cannavale, James Corden, and Neil Patrick Harris). But Everyman Theatre has three heavy-hitters of their own in Resident Company Members in Bruce Randolph Nelson as Serge, Kyle Prue as Marc, and Tony K. Nam as Yvan in their current production of the show. The complexities of friendship are given an absurdist twist in this Tony Award-winning satire. Noah Himmelstein directs this French play, translated by Christopher Hampton (and in 29 other languages), set in Paris. In 2013 (the second production in its new home), Everyman also mounted probably Reza’s best known play, “God of Carnage,” in an equally stunning production.
Everyman never disappoints and ‘Art’ is no exception. Highly recommended!
Serge (Nelson at his wry best) is over the moon about a piece of modern art he has just purchased at a hefty price. Serge’s best friend, Marc (Prue in a powerful turn), makes no bones about the fact that he thinks it is a piece of garbage (although in stronger terms). The issue is that this piece of art consists of a large canvas, painted all white with barely perceptible, diagonal white lines. Yvan doesn’t love the painting either, but he is an insecure, people-pleaser who doesn’t want to rock the boat—or his friendships. Yvan is caught in the middle as Marc and Yvan discuss the issue of the purchase separately with Serge and then when the three get together. Their opinions about this painting and “what is art” is the catalyst for a major meltdown between the three about their friendship—and they say some pretty unforgivable things to each other. Yvan has his own personal meltdown about his fraught, upcoming marriage in an extended, hilarious monologue that Nam delivers flawlessly and deserving of his own standing ovation.
Throughout, the characters often break the fourth wall to explain their feelings and the events sparked by the painting. Even though this is satire that has some very funny moments throughout, there is an undercurrent of seriousness. Friendships and people do change and some friends are not always forever.
There is also the question of such an odd thing setting off this emotional melee if these are truly good buddies of many years. I would, as Yvan does, feel that if this made my friend happy, I would be happy for him whether I agreed with his decision or not. Marc takes this as somehow a reflection of him. In the end, Serge allows something shocking and very funny that does prove the strength of the trio’s relationship.
The production highlights the deep well of the actors’ talent and is complemented by a minimal and gorgeous set design by Paige Hathaway and equally beautiful lighting by Harold F. Burgess II. Two chandeliers float above three white chairs and a coffee table in the center, set off by the simple set painted in deep, wine tones. Sliding, back panels separate scenes and locales. It is sumptuous in its simplicity. Everyman never disappoints and “Art” is no exception. Highly recommended!
Running Time: One hour and 90 minutes with no intermission.
Advisory: Adult language.
“Art” runs through November 16, 2025 at Everyman Theatre, 315 West Fayette Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. For more information and to purchase tickets, please go online.
