South African actor Wilhelm van der Walt urges theatregoers to see the latest production of Art, by French playwright Yasmina Reza, with an “open heart”.
Set in Paris, the human language of friendship, could trump the cost of art and how loyalty could trump the cost of art and how loyalty, identity, and the fragile bonds that connect three long-time friends.
The production is on at the Baxter Flipside until Saturday, September 12.
Van der Walt said that it was a universal play which resonated with audiences and allowed them to see themselves and their friends on stage.
“It is just a great night out. Sit back, relax, and identify yourself and your friends and family,” he said.
A friendship tested by art
The plot entails Serge, played by Ludwig Binge, who spends an exorbitant amount of French francs on an artwork consisting entirely of white lines on a white canvas. His friend Marc, played by Wessel Pretorius, is appalled.
Their mutual friend Yvan, played by Van der Walt, is caught in the middle.
The cast features the award-winning acting trio of Van der Walt, Pretorius, and Binge, whose established on-stage chemistry has been cited by critics as one of the production’s greatest strengths.
Award-winning cast
Translated into English by Academy Award-winning writer Christopher Hampton, the English production follows the immense success of the Afrikaans adaptation, Kuns, which debuted at the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (KKNK) in 2025.
That production went on to achieve widespread acclaim at the Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees, earning numerous accolades, including Best Ensemble, Best Theatre Production, and a Best Actor award for Van der Walt.
Director and designer Marthinus Basson, one of South Africa’s most acclaimed theatre-makers, helms this English-language production.
He described the play as “as close to a perfect play as one can hope for,” noting that it offers a rare opportunity for three actors to demonstrate their craft.
According to the critics, whether you are a fan of contemporary comedy or simply appreciate compelling performances and thought-provoking dialogue, ART promises an unforgettable evening at the theatre.
Van der Walt said the cast needed little rehearsal except to get the words coming out in English.
Tickets and performances
Performances are at 7.30pm with Saturday matinees at 3pm.
Tickets are available through Webtickets or at any Pick n Pay store.
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