EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY SELLS OUT OPENING NIGHT OF “ART”

EMERALD COAST THEATRE COMPANY SELLS OUT OPENING NIGHT OF “ART”

The award-winning comedy continues March 13-15 at The Market Shops in Miramar Beach

Miramar Beach, Fla. (March 8, 2015) — Emerald Coast Theatre Company (ECTC) opened “Art,” a comedy by French playwright Yasmina Reza, to a sold out crowd on Friday, March 6.

“The energy and excitement of playing an intelligent comedy to a full house filled with laughter … what more could we ask for?” said ECTC producing artistic director Nathanael Fisher.

The comedy will run for three performances next weekend, March 13, 14 and 15 at 7:30 p.m. in suite 15 at The Market Shops (near to Sandestin) in Miramar Beach.

The English translation of ‘Art’ debuted on London’s West End in 1996 and opened on Broadway two years later winning both the Tony Award and New York Drama Critics’ Circle for Best Play. It also received rave reviews when it debuted in New York including the New York Post, which described it as “wildly funny and naughtily provocative".

Local audiences seem to agree with the critics, posting these comments on Facebook:

“A play full of loquacious arguing with pitch and passion - fantastic actors!” - Joan

“Art - great play in Sandestin. Great actors - Don Goodrum, Jason Hedden and Allen Walker. Great director Nathanael Fisher. Go see it.” — Dr. Dan.

Theater patrons are being treated to a little more art at “Art.” Admission includes a free art gallery showcase — featuring original paintings, mixed media, glass art and more by 12 award-winning local visual artists — open an hour before the show.

“We didn’t know what to expect, but the collaborative gallery showcase has been the perfect pre-show primer,” Fisher says. “It has been fun to watch patrons mix and mingle as they viewed the art on display.”

Theatergoers may also participate in an Art-themed Raffle. The prizes are an original 24 x 24 coastal inspired painting donated by Santa Rosa Beach artist Lori Drew, and a Broadway Bound package featuring a two-night hotel stay at The Benjamin, a luxury boutique hotel in heart of Manhattan’s theater district and tickets for two to “Kinky Boots,” winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical.

Patrons can donate toward raffle tickets at each performance of “Art,” from ECTC board members, or by calling (850) 687-1637. Individual raffle tickets are $25 each or five for $100. Raffle contest winners will be drawn on March 15 after the final performance of “Art.” You do not need to be present to win.

Set in modern day Paris, the story revolves around three friends — Serge, Marc and Yvan — who find their previously solid 15-year friendship on shaky ground when Serge buys an expensive abstract painting. Marc is horrified, and their relationship suffers considerable strain as a result of their differing opinions about what constitutes “art.” Yvan is caught in the middle of the conflict and tries to please and mollify both of them.

The three-member cast includes Don Goodrum (Serge), Jason Hedden (Yvan) and Allen Walker (Marc).

Tickets are $20 per person, $15 for seniors and $12 for students. Due to language, the play is recommended for adult audiences. Seats are limited, advance purchase is recommended. To purchase tickets, visit emeraldcoasttheatre.org or call (850) 687-1637.