UK Theatre Network

STUDIES FOR A PORTRAIT                OVAL HOUSE THEATRE

Studies For A Portrait, at the Oval House Theatre follows the last few days of Julian Barker, a highly successful artist in the ranks of David Hockney, Francis Bacon and Andy Warhol.

The dying artist retreats to his East Hampton beach home with his much younger partner Chad. The latter is a hard-faced but efficient gold-digger who is determined to take sole control of Barker's estate once he is dead. However Barker’s previous long term boyfriend Marcus, appears on the scene broke and believing he has also a stake in the painter’s work. Along for the ride is also Justin, Chad’s cute twenty-three year old underwear model boyfriend who wants Chad’s full attention but is also willing to share his time with Barker as his new muse. As the battle for inheritance, heart and legacy begins amongst the ménage a trios, the best and worst of human nature is seen.

Daniel Reitz’s witty and often moving play is an observation of the complexities of relationships, power-games and self-preservation. He cleverly gives each character enough dimensions so it is not always clear cut what their motivations are. Is it simply the legacy of the artist? Or is it greed, control or even love?

The artist himself is a whirlwind of emotions as he faces death from pancreatic cancer. Co-dependent on Chad both practically and emotionally, he is perhaps the only person who sees the people around him for what they really are. Chad himself is not particularly a likeable character, having schemed his way into Barker’s life and chased away the threat of Marcus, he is determined to cling on to what he has gained. But again Reitz gives Chad unexpected edges, he may also genuinely love Barker, and not just for his money. Marcus the ex-lover who never quite got over his relationship with Barker, is a showcase of passive-aggressive behavior. Playing mainly victim yet more than able to turn to persecutor when needed. And Justin proves he is not just a fabulous body, he has brains and sensitivity, and is possibly more genuine than any of the men in the house.

The play takes a while to get going with the first half sometimes lacking energy and pace, but once it takes-off it hooks the audience as the charged atmosphere builds.

Adam Spreadbury-Maher's direction is generally focused, and Sophie Mosberger’s arty set a delight. The choice of sixties music is an ideal soundscape for the play. Martin Bendel is splendid as the acerbic Barker, Brodie Bass convincing as the ice queen Chad and David Price hits the mark when he finally lets go in a furious rant against his rival Chad. Michael Parr displays fine acting as Justin, and brings a much needed lift to scenes that sometimes dip.

Studies For A Portrait deals with important legal issues still facing gay couples in America. Barker realizes after his death anything left to Chad would be subject to inheritance tax, and creates a foundation to provide a tax-shelter for his lover when he is gone. It is essentially a gay play for today, but this is not just a play just for gay audiences.  It is a tale which has an emotional core that reflects the general human condition when dealing with issues of relationship and conflict. It is really a study of what makes people tick in times of emotional crises, and in this sense has a universal connection for all theatre goers. This is not to be missed.

OLIVER VALENTINE                                                  Box office: 020 7582 0080