On 27 and 28 March, the Cayman National Cultural Foundation is presenting “Let it be Art”, the extraordinary life story of the elder statesman of the American theatre, director, drama critic, author of the The Fervent Years and cofounder of the Group Theatre, Harold Clurman as portrayed by Ronald Rand.
This production, says the foundation, will have a special appeal to discerning theatre goers and to anyone interested in a powerful and engaging story of an accomplished and dynamic man.
Here’s Henry Muttoo to tell us more.
Can you tell us, in one sentence, what Let it be Art is about?
The dynamic, exciting, passionate and colourful life of Harold Clurman, one of the greatest stage directors, authors and critics of the 20th century.
How did you hear about the theatre production “Let it be Art” and why is it important to bring this type of professional theatre to the Cayman Islands?
I first heard about it a few years ago but, more recently, I was contacted directly by Ronald Rand, the actor and former student of Clurman. Harold Clurman was one of the most influential American theatre directors of all time. While the play is about the life of a specific person, it is above all the story of a passionate, skilful, erudite and creative person, and so I hope that patrons will not only gain a better understanding of human nature as it plays out in the artistic temperament, but also the creative impulse and the sheer joy, passion and dedication that goes into making art.
You mentioned that Harold Clurman wrote a book about theatre directing. How has this influenced your work as an influential artistic director in the Caribbean?
After studying many texts on directing, including many contemporary texts, Clurman’s is still my ‘bible’ where the subject is concerned. It cannot teach you to be creative or even to be a good Stage Director. If, however, you are analytical, creative and excited by human behaviour and the actor’s interpretation of it on stage, you will find it very useful.
Is this play for everyone?
I believe the theatre experience is one everyone should have. My answer would be yes.
If I’m new to theatre, will this production be of interest to me?
Absolutely – if you are interested in a powerful and engaging telling of a good story about a very accomplished and dynamic man.
Tickets are available from the Cayman National Cultural Foundation (949-5477), Foster’s Food Fair and Funky Tangs. Adults $25, Children $15.
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