Review: How would you sum up the 20th century?

Ben Cowhick with a resident of the Barth Hotel
Photo by Michael Ensminger

How would you sum up the 20^th century? What notable minds would rise to the top of the list of all the people that impacted the century in such big ways? Who has had the biggest impact on science, art, and commercialism? Well, if you ask Steve Martin, then those names would be Picasso and Einstein. In Steve Martin’s first full length play, Picasso at the Lapin Agile, he explores these questions in the way only Steve Martin can.

Picasso at the Lapin Agile was first written in 1993, but it is set in 1904 where two of the greatest minds in history have a fictional meeting at a very real place – the Lapin Agile. The Lapin Agile (pictured below left.)is a real bar in Paris, France where, for hundreds of years, it was a famous meeting spot for struggling artists and writers - including Pablo Picasso. This fictional meeting, however, is between a young Pablo Picasso and a young Albert Einstein. The two geniuses are on the brink of some landmark ideas that have both paved the way for art and science in the 20^th century. Einstein is about to write his theory of relativity and Picasso is about to paint Les Demoiselles d’Avignon. The two of them interact with the locals in the bar, discussing what it means to make an impact on the world, and leave their own historical legacies behind. Though fictional, these are the types of conversations I imaging actually occurred at this historic watering hole.

Directed by Terry Dodd, Picasso at the Lapin Agile is being presented in the lobby of the historic Barth Hotel – the very essence of “environmental theatre.” The historic Barth Hotel provides supportive assisted and subsidized apartments for older adults in Colorado. This is their annual fundraiser and they pull some of the best talent in the state to perform every year in this unique and beautiful setting.

Selecting a show that can be performed in the lobby of a hotel is not an easy task – but this show fits the location perfectly. The script is subtle and nuanced, which begs for an intimate space. Yet the humor is still very much Steve Martin’s humor, keeping the show alive and vibrant. You can’t help but sit back, take in the beauty of the historic lobby, and smile as the cast transports you to early 20^th century France.

Then there is this cast – this fantastic and sublime cast. Dodd has pulled together the perfect people to bring these iconic characters to life. Brian Kusic as Einstein and Ben Cowhick as Picasso are both enchanting. The fun playfulness between the two is heartfelt and real. While the energy and enthusiasm that each brings as their respective character is magnificent. There isn’t a weak spot in this large and diverse cast. Larry Hecht and James Nantz play the locals in the bar and keep the whole show grounded in reality while Laura Lounge and ZZ Moore take on the female roles with utter abandon and whimsy. Royce Wood leaps onto the stage with such energy and life that it shakes the room, bringing wonderful comedic moments to the already fascinating show. Truly, this cast is enjoying being a part of this production, and it shows clearly in each and every person’s performance.

Technically, it is very difficult to design a show for an environmental piece, yet Stuart Barr has done a very impressive job indeed. His simple and elegant lighting design brings the perfect punctuation to this show, and leaves you with hauntingly beautiful images in your mind as you exit the historic hotel. These are important moments in the show, however, so I will not go in to more detail – except to say that it is delightful and stunning.

This is a perfect example of a production where all the pieces fit together beautifully and create an evening of entertainment that is enchanting, funny, thought provoking, and beautiful. Performed with no intermission, this is a show that speeds along and takes you for a very interesting ride. Go see this show, bring some friends that enjoy a good conversation, and spread the word about this little show that makes a big impact.

For more info: 
Senior Housing Options Presents:
Steve Martin's Picasso at the Lapin Agile
Directed by Terry Dodd; Featuring Laurence Hecht* and James Nantz*
At the Historic Barth Hotel, 1510 17th Street in LoDo, Denver
Thursday-Saturdays, July 8th - August 14th, 2010 at 8:00pm