The 'Art' of Friendship

True enough, after watching the play, I started reviewing my friendships. I am referring to the play, Art, that I watched last January 28, at SM Cinema Two.

Written in French by Yasmina Reza (translated by Christopher Hampton), Art is about three friends and the painting that caused a discord.

I have heard so much about Little Boy Productions but this is my first time to actually watch one of their productions.

The story was well woven:

1) No need for elaborate setting. Everything happened in the living room. I like their style of putting one character under a spot light while addressing the audience. You won't get lost in translation, this way, as the play progresses.

2) Few characters. Audie Gemora gave an air of sophistication to the character of Serge. It was obvious with his gestures, facial expression and the way he carried himself on stage (aside from the fact that he can spend a lot of money on an unusual painting) that he was the wealthiest among the three.

Jaime del Mundo made it easy for the audience to know that Ivan was the peacemaker of the three and the guy who couldn't easily make up his mind. His character also gave the comic relief. I specially like his fast-paced monologue enumerating reasons for his being late.

As Marc, Bart Guingona, was oozing with energy. He could easily move from astounded, indignant and self-righteous to betrayed, scorned and insulted. Bart Guingona did great as a director. If there were any faults in the production, it was not obvious.

I should say that for a play to be successful, the audience must be entertained and motivated. Judging from the reaction of the majority inside the theater, it was a success! The play made me start analyzing my friendships on various stages of my life. I now know that one can outgrow a friendship. That some time, along the course of life, you will realize you don't have many things in common with the person you have considered your best buddy. Don't get me wrong. You don't have to lose that friend. You may just have found someone new for yourself.

Judging from the friendship of Marc, Serge and Ivan - I have learned that in a friendship there is a leader (usually someone with strong convictions and power), then there is the follower or followers (who, sooner or later, will try something new and eventually become the strong figure in a new-found group) or there can be the indecisive (usually, they are caught in-between).

It is quite common, in a friendship, to seek approval. This approval-seeking can be disastrous. In the play, Serge was seeking approval from Marc that the white painting he has bought for a great price was worth it. The disagreement that ensued started the insults, the fault-finding and doubting in the credibility of friendship.

Perhaps, the nicest message that the play delivered was that we can remain friends even if we disagree on many things. According to Ivan, "you are you and I am I". That's the art of friendship.