Details

Beside Picasso is a verbally venomous, effervescent and often hilarious exploration of power, friendship, sex, money and the nature of genius. What sort of man was Pablo Picasso? An artistic genius? A compulsive womaniser? A stimulating companion and friend? Or just a conceited self centred bastard? It is 1973 and Picasso has just died. Instead of going before a divine judge he comes face to face with the one person who knows everything about him - his life-long friend, publicist, business manager and biographer Jaime Sabartes. The trouble is they have conflicting interpretations of the many incidents they have live through together from poverty stricken youth in Barcelona to international success as leading players in the artistic avant garde. Picasso sees himself as an artistic hero, bringing colour, joy and excitement to everyone around him. Sabartes is there to remind him of the darker side to his character - his impossible behaviour towards clients and dealers, the exploitation of everyone who love him (especially woman), and his cruelty and petty-mindedness. Pablo Picasso and Jaime Sabartes lived through much together. But now it is the time of reckoning. Like boxers in a ring the men are pitted in a ruthless contest to discover the 'truth' of Picasso's life. They resurrect past triumphs, escapades and characters from their extraordinary lives, edging ever closer to the ultimate quarrel and the ultimate betrayal. After the highly successful script in hand performance of this piece in February '99, AJ Theatre are returning to treat us to the definitive production. This will be great theatre - moving, uncompromising and absolutely compelling. Contains strong language, not suitable for children.

Cast/Performers

Iain Armstrong, Mick Jasper

Creatives/Company

Author: Brian McAvera
Director: Geoff Bullen