Art in the Mist

by Frank Furnari, New Pre Reviewer

Bakersfield Mist, a new play presented at New Rep as part of a rolling world premier, is a play about art and its authenticity. 'Another play about art?' you might ask – isn't this the second one in New Rep's season, not to mention it being the topic of plays at other theaters? While it's true the play is about art, it's not typical, and it is based on a true story.

Maude was recently fired from her bartending job, lives in a trailer and is not your typical art collector or connoisseur. Maude, convincingly portrayed by Paula Langton, is what you might think a trailer park resident would look like – leopard print top, leather boots, a tattoo with her ex husband's name. She has, however, acquired what she believes to be an authentic Jackson Pollock painting (from a thrift shop no less!), and has hired Lionel Percy (Ken Cheeseman) to verify that the work is in fact by Pollock. Lionel arrives he appears to exude self-confidence – he is wearing a suit, has his hair slicked back, carries a briefcase, and he used to work at the Metropolitan Museum in NYC. The play gives each actor some great moments and each actor under Jeff Zinn’s shines really shines. During Maude’s monologue about her son, her recounting of events enthralled me and it seemed the rest of the audience was as well. The performance is brief (only 75 minutes), it touches on issues of what art is, who or what determines its value, and who is fit to own and appreciate art.

The set (Jiyoun Chang) and props (Nick Dorr and Mary Fritz) were perfect for the show. Upon entering, I was drawn to the small trailer on stage - it was a space that felt like it had been lived in for years. My eyes kept getting drawn to the various tchotchkes and other ‘artwork’ in the small space.

I was not excited about this play when I first read the description, but I am certainly glad I saw it. The play turned out to be interesting, funny at times, and very well done. Given the writing and the caliber of this production, it is no wonder that this show has been selling out so many performances. Back to my original question – another play about art? Yes – one that shows you to not always trust your first glance - this led to an enjoyable evening.