Theatre Review - PICASSO AT THE LAPIN AGILE - PEOPLE'S THEATRE, NEWCASTLE

 

Written by Steve Martin, Picasso at the Lapin Agile tells the humorous and thought-provoking story that never was. Imagine Pablo Picasso and Albert Einstein are both in the same bar in Paris in 1904, both just about to show their true genius to the world. What would they discuss? The nature of art, science, beauty?  This show is filled with gentle musings of philosophy and humour, without ever tipping over into something that is overly intellectual.

The audience was welcomed into a warm auditorium that had a feeling of a French bar or café. Gentle music plays, the front row of seats are set in a cabaret style with tea lights glowing under the low ambient lighting and as we take our seats, the barman walks around filling up pretzels on each table. All of this leads to a very comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Director Kaila Moyers clearly wanted everyone to enjoy this play as much as they do. Tim Swinton, who designed the lights, sound and set took the vision and brought us all along for a delightful evening in Paris. Wardrobe, by Ailsa Anderson, showed each character’s personality. I particularly liked that artist Sarah Pavlov (Pavart) had provided some of her beautiful abstract pieces as set dressing. This did not just add the feel of the show but also gives you that rare opportunity to buy a piece of the set as all of the paintings are for sale.

The occasional breaking of the fourth wall, and audience interactions throughout, added to the fun feel of the show. Although some of the many accents did waver, or were a little inconsistent at times, this didn’t detract, and it is always difficult to maintain accents when so many different ones are jostling together on the same stage.

Now the cast in order of appearance (sort of…):

Freddy, played by Ian Willis, is perfect as the host, occasionally walking around tables to check for empty glasses, but always understanding what is said with nicely under-played wit and excellent timing. Jim Boylan was very entertaining as the drole Gaston. Rhiannon Wilson was fiercely funny as the sensual and clever waitress Germaine. Peter Dawson was excellent as the always eccentric and completely lovable Albert Einstein. Helen Doyle seemed to enjoy showing her powerful emotions as Suzanne, an admirer of Picasso. Matthew Shepherd took joy in performing the money-oriented Sagot. Jamie Cordes gave us a tremendously passionate, and yet also troubled, Pablo Picasso. Oli Pages brought a charming nervous energy to the overly-enthusiastic Charles Dabernow Schmendiman. Beth O’Doherty brought out two very different character as a Countess and a female admirer. However, it was Jonathan Goodman who brought the strings of thought together and tied the show up neatly with warmth and much mirth as ‘A Visitor’.

A thoughtful and thoroughly enjoyable night at the theatre.

Picasso at the Lapin Agile is showing at The People’s Theatre, until 7^th March 2026.