Lucian Freud: The Artist Examined In New Play

Lucian Freud, the German-born British painter was known for creating works of psychological penetration, and for the often discomforting examination of the relationship between artist and model. Now the tables are turned with an examination of the artist himself, albeit in the form what would seem the rather apt choice of a one-woman play based on a real life encounter.

Cressida Bonas stars as ‘Laura’ in the world premiere of a new play opening at the Leicester Square Theatre on 19 May 2015. Laura-Jane Foley’s ‘An Evening with Lucian Freud’ is a one-woman play with video cameos which takes us inside Lucian Freud’s studio and lays bare the fascinating and complex character of one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. Directed by Ella Marchment and designed by Lily German, the play explores the themes of memory, permanence and creativity, and ultimately reflects on how artists, and writers, must use people to make their art.

It is the day of Laura’s PhD viva and she arrives early at the university research office. While she waits, she recounts the extraordinary tale of the evening she spent with the artist Lucian Freud. This personal, anecdotal tale is blended with art historical and biographical insights and features a range of fictionalized sitters who have been on the receiving end of Freud’s unflinching gaze.

Cast: Cressida Bonas with video cameos by: Maureen Lipman, Russell Grant, Alastair Stewart, Shana Swash, Laura-Jane Foley, Benjamin Ramm. Written by Laura-Jane Foley. Running time: 60 minutes

An Evening With Lucian Freud – Leicester Square Theatre Lounge – 19 May to 6 June 2015

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