WISH-LIST WEDNESDAY: Red

Artwork for the 2018 revival starring Alfred Molina and Alfred Enoch

Theatre surrounding the lives of artists tends to be hugely intriguing, as more often than not they are especially eccentric, even obsessive personalities; enter mid-20th century US artist Mark Rothko, a man whose work seems simple at first glance, but we soon come to learn just how much of a perfectionist the man was. Written by John Logan, and premiering at Donmar Warehouse in 2009, "Red" provides a unique insight into the working mind of an artist, and the single-mindedness that is synonymous with so many who exhibit such considerable creative output. This is most notable through the contention towards, and evasion of the use of the word "red" itself by Rothko as a definition of his art.

The play, which I have seen only in recorded form, focusses around Rothko and his fictional assistant Ken in his private studio in 1958-59, as the artist endeavours to complete a series of commissions by exclusive fine dining establishment the Four Seasons restaurant. The intrigue that drives this piece is the constant back and forth between the two men, Rothko challenging his assistant, himself an aspiring artist, to expand his own horizons and how he thinks about art. It is a beautifully designed and directed piece of theatre, and one that I feel would appease fans of shows like Sunday in the Park with George and Lempicka.

Alfred Molina and Eddie Redmayne in "Red"

In its premiere at Donmar Warehouse, and subsequent transfer to the Golden Theatre on broadway, Rothko was played by Alfred Molina, with his assistant Ken portrayed by Eddie Redmayne, the latter winning a Tony Award for his portrayal. Alfred Enoch took on the role of Ken when "Red" was revived in 2018 at Wyndham's Theatre, with Molina returning to reprise the role of Rothko. The play was a huge success in New York, becoming the biggest winner at the 64th Tony Awards with six wins from seven nominations, and it put writer Logan, best known prior as a screenwriter, firmly on the map as a playwright, and he has subsequently provided the book for both "Moulin Rouge!" and "Swept Away".

Have you ever seen or experienced "Red", either live in the theatre or via National Theatre At Home or other streaming services? Let me know in the comments, or on my instagram page.