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Monet's Masterpiece: A Musical of Regret
26 Mar
Summary
- Musical explores Claude Monet's regrets about his first marriage.
- Set features a jumble of canvases filling with impressionist paintings.
- Performances highlight strong singing and camaraderie among artists.
A new musical production at Charing Cross theatre offers a reflective look at the life of Claude Monet, focusing on his personal regrets rather than his artistic triumphs. The story, set in 1916 as Monet struggles with cataracts, sees the aging artist recalling his past, particularly the personal cost of his ambition and his mistreatment of his first wife, Camille.
The ambitious book by Carmel Owen sometimes becomes a "house of mirrors" with a split focus, yet the production boasts significant strengths. Libby Todd's set design is a standout, featuring floor-to-ceiling canvases that dynamically fill with vivid impressionist paintings and animated backdrops, inviting the audience into Monet's artistic world.
Director Christian Durham's cast delivers accomplished performances. Jeff Shankley provides moving introspection as the older Monet, while Brooke Bazarian and Dean John-Wilson impress with their vocal talents. The strongest connections on stage are between young Monet and his fellow impressionist peers, Bazille and Renoir, whose lively interactions provide humor and highlight their shared artistic rebellion.
