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A Story Old As Time
Sam Waterson and Brian Murray Present The Old Masters at The Met
Sam Waterson and Brian Murray in The Old Masters
The latest play reading in New York is based on a lifetime over 50 years ago, but no worries, just because the plot is outdated, doesn’t mean the story is.
The ideas of camaraderie, ethics, and destiny set the stage for The Old Masters reading at the Metropolitan Museum of Art this June. Written by Simon Gray, The Old Masters is an all-consuming drama involving the conflict between two leading luminaries of the pre-World War II European art world. This summer’s reading features the original cast from the play’s American premiere at the Long Wharf Theater in February. Award winning actor Sam Waterson plays Bernard Berenson and Brian Murray stars as the famed art dealer Lord Joseph Duveen. Other cast members include: Shirley Knight, Heidi Schreck, and Rufus Collins.
The drama centers on Berenson and Duveen; the two are longtime associates who meet for an explosive battle over the Renaissance masterpiece, The Adoration of Shepherds. The disagreement marked the final moments in their controversial relationship; the relationship that demands reliance on one another, yet the continuation of aggressive rivalry. The conflict presents much at stake: Berenson is scared of ruining his reputation and influence in European art world, whereas Duveen remains unaware that the Nazis are planning on driving him to America and ending his career as a Continental art dealer. History, art, and competition drive the plot of The Old Masters making it an entertaining performance with something special for every audience member.
The Met is thrilled to host Gray’s work as the museum has had a long, historic connection with Lord Duveen and his art collection. Over the years, the Met has accumulated over 100 European paintings that passed through Duveen’s gallery including Francisco Goya’s late 18th century portrait of the son of King Charles III of Spain, Don Manuel Osorio Manrique de Zuniqa.
Gray is a famous playwright from England. Because of Gray’s various experiences in the literary field including five novels, and 40 original plays, Gray’s work draws in all audiences with his characteristic wit. Be sure to visit the Met during one of the two readings and delight in Gray’s literary genius.
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