New Rep explores racial politics in the art world
with Permanent Collection

From left, Clark Jackson and Benjamin Evett in New Repertory
Theatre's production of Permanent Collection.
Photo by Craig Bailey/Perspective Photo

New Repertory Theatre, located in Newton, MA, presents the New England Premiere of Permanent Collection. Thomas Gibbons's acclaimed new play, loosely based on events at the Barnes Foundation, dramatizes the collision of art and racial politics in a suburban art gallery. Permanent Collection, directed by Adam Zahler and starring Benjamin Evett and Clark Jackson, plays through December 12, 2004.

With Permanent Collection, playwright Thomas Gibbons has fashioned a gripping drama that explores the insidious heritage of cultural bias, as well as our inability to talk frankly about matters of race. The play introduces us to Sterling North (Clark Jackson), an ambitious black businessman whose lifelong success in the corporate world leads to his appointment as president of the Morris Foundation. Upon his arrival, Sterling discovers priceless works of African art in storage, and in defiance of the founder's wishes, he demands to change the exhibit. Sterling's agenda brings him into immediate conflict with Paul Barrow (Benjamin Evett), a white man and the Foundation's long-time education director. Paul argues that the founder's ideals cannot be disregarded, but Sterling insists that Paul's viewpoint is racially motivated. When the local press gets word of the controversy, the conflict escalates to epic proportions.

"When we go into a museum," explains playwright Thomas Gibbons, "and look at the pieces hanging there, we're being presented with a consensus of what is worth preserving and examining in our culture. It's a statement about who we are and what we value. How do we decide what hangs on the walls?"

Rick Lombardo, New Repertory Theatre's Producing Artistic Director, says the play feels perfect for New Rep. "Permanent Collection was brought to my attention by two separate subscribers," he explains. "Each of them took the time to write me a letter, encouraging me to consider the piece. When I read it, I knew instantly it was a play we had to do."

Permanent Collection plays through December 12, 2004, performing Wednesday through Sunday, with matinees and evening performances. The production, directed by Adam Zahler, features Benjamin Evett, Paul Farwell, Clark Jackson, Giselle Jones, Tracy Oliverio, and Sylvia Ann Soares. Tickets range from $30 - $48, with senior, student, and group rates available. New Repertory Theatre is easily accessible from major routes and public transportation. For more information, call 617.332.1646 or go online to www.newrep.org.

Permanent Collection Production Shot 497 - from left, Clark Jackson (Sterling North) and Benjamin Evett (Paul Barrow) in New Repertory Theatre's production of Permanent Collection.