Picasso at the Lapin Agile

Director Tim Edwards has an obvious affection for Picasso at the Lapin Agile, this being the third time directing the show, and it is lovely to see such enthusiasm for a play.

Picasso at the Lapin Agile by well-known actor Steve Martin is about a theoretical evening at the Parisian artists' cafe The Lapin Agile early in the 1900s.

With a cast of eleven, just fitting them on to the tiny KADS stage is somewhat of an achievement. The set, designed by Cicely Binford and constructed by Barry Carpenter, is quite stunning and features empty frames — lovely use of symbolism.

Solid performances from the always lovely Sheryl Spencer as Germaine, John Bevan as Sagot, Lachlan Stewart as Einstein and Adrian Lewis as Gaston. Jason Millman establishes anchor character Freddy well; a little less hesitancy with his wordy dialogue would help flow.

Nic Alexander, in only his second stage appearance, is impressive as Picasso, while a lovely community theatre debut by Naoimh Healy as Suzanne.

Gareth Sambridge, Nicola Chapman, Carmen Miles and Alex Jones, made the most of their cameo appearances.

Folk music band, The Black Chooks, establish Bohemian French Cafe atmosphere by playing prior to the show and add to the experience.

On opening night the laughs were not flowing as freely as I feel they should. This was partly due to a small audience, but also some lack of pace and confidence. I trust that the show will speed up as the run progresses.

Fans of the actor Steve Martin, should check out his writing skills and see this production. Admirers of Picasso and Albert Einstein and lovers of absurd comedy should also check out Picasso at the Lapin Agile.

Kimberley Shaw