MCT to Kick Off 2013-14 Season with Yasmina Reza's ART, Begin. 8/8

Milwaukee Chamber Theatre (MCT) kicks off the 2013-2014 theatre season with the Tony Award-winning comedy 'ART,' by Yasmina Reza, translated by Christopher Hampton, August 8-25, 2013. The cast of three features Milwaukee favorites Tom Klubertanz, Brian Mani and C. Michael Wright. 'ART' performs in the Broadway Theatre Center's Cabot Theatre in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward.

Set in present day Paris, 'ART' begins as Serge buys an extremely expensive painting - which is rather minimalist in style. He never suspects how much the purchase will strain his friendship with Marc and Yvan - testing their relationship to the max! Reza's comedy raises intriguing questions about art and friendship.

All three members of the 'ART' cast return to MCT after appearing in multiple productions. Tom Klubertanz appeared in last summer's A THOUSAND CLOWNS (2012) as well as Brooklyn Boy (2009) and MOONLIGHT AND MAGNOLIAS (2007). Brian Mani, who is on sabbatical from American Players Theatre this season, was most recently seen in MCT's THE LION IN WINTER (2011), THE SUM OF US (2009) and A LESSON FROM ALOES (2007). MCT Producing Artistic Director C. Michael Wright typically serves behind-the-scenes but returns to the stage for 'ART' after performing in MAURITIUS (2011) and DUET FOR ONE (2010).

Tyler Marchant makes his MCT directing debut with 'ART.' He directed the world premiere of FREUD'S LAST SESSION at Barrington Stage Company as well as the Off-Broadway, Chicago and Los Angeles premieres of the play. Currently a theatre professor at UW-Stevens Point, he also served as the associate artistic director at the Off-Broadway theatre Primary Stages.

When asked about the design concept for 'ART,' Director Tyler Marchant said, "I was intrigued by the connection of these three men dealing with their relationships through the medium of art. It seemed to me there was an opportunity to see these relationships through the metaphor of primary colors - which brought me to the work of Piet Mondrian." Marchant shared this inspiration with the MCT creative team and the resulting designs reflect the influence of Mondrian's modern, non-representational style.

'ART' won the 1998 Tony Award for Best Play. The show had its world premiere in Paris in 1994. It was translated into English by Christopher Hampton for the 1996London premiere. In 1998 it opened on Broadway staring Alan Alda, Victor Garber and Alfred Molina. Numerous other awards include the Evening Standard Award for Best Comedy, the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy, Moliere Award for Best Commercial Production and the New York Drama Critic's Circle Best Play.

French playwright, novelist and actress Yasmina Reza's works have been produced worldwide and translated into 35 languages. In addition to 'ART,' her plays include CONVERSATIONS AFTER A BURIAL, THE PASSAGE OF WINTER, THE UNEXPECTED MAN, LIFE X 3, A SPANISH PLAY, GOD OF CARNAGE and HOW YOU TALK THE GAME. She has also written several novels and for film.

'ART' performances will take place August 8-25, 2013 (Opening Night: Friday, Aug. 9) in the Broadway Theatre Center's Cabot Theatre, 158 N. Broadway inMilwaukee's Historic Third Ward. Tickets are available Monday through Saturday from noon-6:00 p.m. at the Broadway Theatre Center Box Office, 158 N. Broadway, or by phone at (414) 291-7800. Tickets can be purchased online - 24 hours a day at milwaukeechambertheatre.com. Group, student and senior discounts are also available. Season ticket packages, $93-$155, can be purchased by calling (414) 276-8842. For more information, visit milwaukeechambertheatre.com. 'ART' is co-sponsored by John E. Holland and the Sheldon & Marianne Lubar Charitable Fund.

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