The Art of War At The Stratford Festival paints a painful portrait of conflict
The Art of War: A Review of the Play at Stratford Festival
Yvette Nolan’s play, The Art of War, currently showing at the Studio Theater at the Stratford Festival, delves into the lasting legacy of Canadian war art through the eyes of a young painter named Nick. Set during the height of the Second World War, Nick is tasked with capturing the depths of combat – not just how it looks, but how it feels.
Through the use of paint, Nick must convey the visceral realities of war – the smell of burnt flesh, the texture of blood, the sounds of battle. It’s a challenging task that forces him to confront his own experiences on the front lines. The play raises thought-provoking questions about the role of art in depicting the horrors of war and its impact on national identity.
While the concept of the play is intriguing, there are some shortcomings in its execution. As the play progresses, it veers into more overt commentary on the significance of war art, losing some of its initial subtlety. The set design, while stylish, lacks the depth needed to fully immerse the audience in Nick’s world.
The performances by the cast, including Josue Laboucane as Nick, Jordin Hall as Newman, and Jenna-Lee Hyde as Magda, bring depth and emotion to the characters. However, there are moments where the characters feel disconnected from their surroundings, detracting from the overall impact of the play.
With some adjustments, The Art of War has the potential to be a powerful addition to Canadian theatre. It explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the human cost of war through the lens of art. While the play has moments of brilliance, it falls short of fully realizing its potential.
In conclusion, The Art of War is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of art and war, but it falls short of being a truly memorable piece of theatre. With some refinements, it could become a standout production that resonates with audiences long after the final curtain falls.
