Tony Winner Comes To Guild Hall

“If I’m who I am because I’m who I am and you’re who you are because you’re who you are, then I’m who I am and you’re who you are. If, on the other hand, I’m who I am because you’re who you are and if you’re who you are because I’m who I am, then I’m not who I am and you’re not who you are.”

Oh, the complex simplicity in a line taken directly from the upcoming show “Art,” summing up the play in a single example.

Our Fabulous Variety Show, in association with Nimbus Productions, presents a production of the award-winning play depicting the relationship between three friends as they comedically explore the ways individual opinion, desire for status, and an unsteady faith can take their toll on interconnectedness. “Art,” written by Yasmina Reza (“God of Carnage”), will be performed from Thursday, April 25 through Sunday, May 5 at the John Drew Theater at Guild Hall in East Hampton.

“We are thrilled to be bringing this play back to Guild Hall and have loved seeing this incredible trio bring their roles to life,” said Anita Boyer of OFVS. “This show brings so many universal themes about value and art and friendship to life in a brilliant, beautiful, and comedic way. It is a must see for all.”

The production is directed by Jenna Mate and features Edward Kassar, Joe Pallister, and Sawyer Spielberg. Prior to rehearsals, the cast spent time at the Museum of Modern Art, observing the collection and drawing connection to the play at hand.

“Whether standing in front of a painting, or witnessing a performance, I always feel I’ve been given a gift. Having the opportunity to breathe in art is a privilege, one that I’m very grateful for,” said Mate.

“The piece of art serves as a catalyst that ignited a hilarious yet poignant debate: Can a friendship survive even when the values begin to shift? My hope is that the audience walks away with a lot to discuss.” Mate envisions many audience members will “resonate with the idea of a friend trying” to climb to the top through flashy objects “or a piece of art” using a humorous screenplay.

“The play ‘Art’ moves me, because it brings to light the way we shift our personalities depending on who, or what, is around us at any particular moment,” Pallister explained. He and Kassar set up Nimbus Productions in 2017 with the production of “A Steady Gain” at Guild Hall.

“Art” is translated from its original French. The original Broadway production featured Alan Alda, Victor Garber, and Alfred Molina, and the play, which premiered in France in 1994, has not only won the Tony Award for Best Play, but also the Lawrence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, the Drama Critics Circle for Best Play, and the Moliere Award.

It was translated to English by Christopher Hampton, who is famed for his screenplay of “Dangerous Liaisons,” based on the French novel “Les Liaisons Dangereuses.”

OFVS is composed of performers producing eclectic creations, founded by Anita Boyer and Kasia Klimiuk in 2010. The original intention was a one-time show to raise monies towards Crohn’s and Colitis disease, its performances continue to fundraise for local non-profits and the company’s annual performing arts scholarship.

Tickets are $28 in advance and $35 at the door, and can be purchased by visiting www.ourfabulousvarietyshow.org, or calling 631-507-4603.

nicole@indyeastend.com