The Painter – review

Toby Jones as Turner in The Painter. Photo by Simon Annand

A play about Turner, arguably England’s finest romantic landscape artist, would appear to be the perfect opener for the Arcola Theatre’s new venue, a disused paint factory.   You might even expect a visual feast, particularly as Turner himself bought his paint here.  If so, you will be disappointed.

Rebecca Lenkiewitcz, has chosen to concentrate on Turner’s personal struggles, and  her play, The Painter, depicts Turner (Toby Jones) as an emotional cripple, unable to form meaningful relationships, particularly with women.  Reliant on his father for practical as well as emotional support, Turner emerges as a lonely and melancholic figure.

Turner’s inability to feel or articulate his emotions is highlighted by three passionate women who struggle to connect with him.  Mary, Turner’s mother, (played by Amanda Boxer) rejects him at an early age, preferring his sister, who died in childhood.  This experience devastates her so completely that she is eventually institutionalised.

In her lucid moments, she attempts desperately to connect with Turner.  “At least I can feel something”, she throws at him prior to being sent away.   Sarah (Niamh Cusack), a widowed actress with several children, is attracted to Turner and attempts to seduce him into a long term relationship.  Although pregnant with his child, her attempts at intimacy are futile.  Jenny, a prostitute and model for Turner (a spirited and moving performance by Denise Gough) perhaps gets closest to the real man.  He is briefly touched by her humanity, particularly through contact with her young son.

Directed by Mehmet Ergun, The Painter is a solemn affair, in a gloomy, mostly candlelit, set.  The only time Turner himself becomes remotely animated is when he gives lectures. I can’t help feeling that these scenes in particular would have been enhanced by some of Turner’s blazing canvases.  He was undoubtedly an artistic genius, and not to have allowed us even a glimpse of his greatness diminishes this otherwise fine and well written play.

The Painter by Rebecca Lenkiewicz
Directed by Mehmet Ergen
Arcola Theatre
Until 12 February 2011
Box office: 020 7503 1646

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Related: Welcome to the new Arcola