Red sells out at Grahamstown

The tickets are sold out, but I am more than convinced that we will see more of this brilliant piece soon enough, long after the excitement of the Grahamstown National Arts Festival has died down. Red is an intriguing and intelligent account of one of the most recognisable artists of the 20th century, Mark Rothko. We find ourselves in his New York Studio after he has been contracted to paint a series of murals for the highly exclusive Four Season's restaurant. His newly appointed assistant, Ken, played by Jeremy Richard, who debuted from the at The National Arts Festival 2011 premier of The History Boys, joins Rothko in his journey to deliver these paintings and also observe the ways of Rothko as he goes through the turmoil of accepting that new, indeed, does replace old.

Highly intelligent script

I am particularly fond of the great set, which is nothing less than we would expect from Kickstart Productions. I was mesmerised and very appreciative of the thrilling and highly intelligent script with its referencing and interpretation of art, which would please any art fanatic. The costumes were even used to motivate and illustrate the issues that are being painted in Red.

A special note must be given to the great performance of young Jeremy, who got his performance spot on. Everything about this young actor says that he is incredibly dedicated to his craft. It is obvious that these two performers have the same blood flowing through their veins, as they are, after all, father and son. With this knowledge, the piece is layered with a deeper dimension and can provide numerous analytical interpretations on what is truly being said between the lines.

This piece is serious, delivers a powerful message and can even be comical at times. It discusses art interpretation and, at the same time, becomes an art masterpiece in itself. Red gives you a valuable and interesting perspective on modern life.

For more on the the Grahamstown National Arts Festival (GNAF) go to www.nafest.co.za.