Canadian Stage – John Logan’s Red

November 29, 2011
Reviewed by Paula Citron

Canadian Stage
Written by John Logan
Directed by Kim Collier
Performed by Jim Mezon and David Coomber
Bluma Appel Theatre
Nov. 19 to Dec. 17, 2011

The brilliant Canadian Stage production of John Logan’s Red reduced me to tears. This play touched my heart and soul in a very transcendental way. I was deeply moved by the passion and the power of art.

The play, written in 2009, is about one very particular instance in the life of visionary American abstract expressionism painter, Mark Rothko. Set between 1958 and 1960, the action takes place in Rothko’s Bowery St. studio as he creates his murals commissioned for the new Four Seasons Restaurant in the newly constructed Seagram Building.

The play is essentially a dialogue between Rothko (Jim Mezon) and his young assistant Ken (David Coomber). Mezon proves, once again, that he is one of the greatest actors in Canada, while Coomber is a shining new talent. The chemistry between them is palpable.

Director Kim Collier and her creative team have treated this material with perfection. A must see.

Red continues at the Bluma Appel Theatre until Dec. 17.