RED

Some artists suffer for their art more than others. Irving Stone’s novel, The Agony and the Ecstasy, dealt with Michelangelo’s anguish. In the mid-20^th century American abstract painter Mark Rothko led a similarly plagued career, according to playwright John Logan.

Rothko came from a poor Latvian family that migrated to the US where, in his middle years, Rothko’s talent was recognised during the Abstract Expressionism era. His paintings sold well but he developed two personality traits that marred his life:

He began to imbue his paintings with human feelings; he vetted potential owners and was reluctant to sell a painting to anyone whom he felt lacked the sensitivity to appreciate it. And he developed ambivalence about wealth, acknowledging it recognised the quality of his works, but he felt guilty accepting high prices. This led to his Four Seasons Restaurant notoriety that is the climax of this play.

Colin Friels brings Rothko to life, playing the painter’s emotional turmoil across the whole gamut of emotions. His is a masterful performance in a play that challenges the audience to think, to feel, to care with him, and with Rothko. Tom Barton plays the young artist whom Rothko employed to be his creative assistant. This youthful actor proves a good match for Friels. Here is truly a master-and-apprentice performance of the master painter, Rothko, and his apprentice.

Ninety minutes of riveting theatre!

Jay McKee

Photographer: Rob MacColl