Picasso at the Lapin Agile

An artist, a scientist and an inventor walk into a bar in 1904 and debate the value of art, science and commercialism in the 20th Century, exploring the creative processes behind each (as well as a duel with weapon of choice; a pencil). That sets the scene for the traffic of our stage. 

We know by the timeline - that Einstein will shortly publish his theory of relativity and Picasso will paint his famous Les Demoiselles d'Avignon in the coming years. We also know that the play is based on another of Picasso’s famous works, set in the very same establishment where we find this play. 

Picasso is “Picasso at the Lapin Agile” and if he is most certainly the subject of much conversation when he is not, mostly from one of his many lovers, Germaine (Bernadette Hook), who is again based on an historical a figure. I really enjoyed Hook’s performance - her range of emotions, physical comedy and flawless accent made her a joy to watch. 

There were plenty of chuckles, but this one is a show to listen to, so you don’t miss the puns, because it isn’t always obvious comedy. It is very clever. The comedy is layered. 

The playwright has sprinkled treats into the show such as Picasso choosing a Rosè (a nod to the period of Picasso that the play is set in) as well as some played for laughs, moments of breaking the fourth wall, or an incontinent Gaston (Ben Freeman) making a dash for the bathroom. A comical ensemble of characters does the job of engaging all audience members. 

Castle Hill Players offers this little gem to see out its 2022 season and it’s a good one - it’s witty, it’s clever, it’s well played. The actors handle 80 minutes straight on stage with ease under the direction of Dave Went, playing on a simple functional and fun set. CHP never disappoint with their sets and on this occasion Abby Bishop’s set design instantly whisks us back to the turn of the last century Paris. This is also thanks to lovely costuming by Leone Sharp. 

With such excellent characterisations and depictions of historical figures across all the cast, it becomes difficult to pick a standout. I loved the extravagant larger-than-life womaniser Picasso (Taha Zonoozi), contrasted against Einstein (Mitch Doran), whose brilliance is yet to be recognised and as such is working in a patent office. Doran capably portrayed what we imagine a young, thoughtful and modest Einstein would be. The inventor Schmendiman (Daniel Vavasour) is brash and overly confident, delivering the humour in droves during his smaller but memorable appearance. 

One audience member was heard exclaiming “what was that about” in the foyer and was quickly engaged by other patrons ready to explore their take on the show. This is the kind of play that sets an audience alight with chatter for the post show wrap up. When a show has everyone in the foyer doing this, it is a sign of great theatre. 

A night at the PavilionTheatre is always a treat, and easily accessible by road or rail these days. Head along and enjoy some clever comedy in the Hills. 

Nicole Smith 

Photographer: Chris Lundie