Preview by Emma Brooks, Raglan Old School Arts Centre
Philip Seymour Hoffman, Christopher Walken, Catherine Keenar and Mark Ivanir star in this moving story of a New York-based string quartet struggling to stay together as they mark their 25th anniversary.
When their dignified patriarch and cellist, Peter (Christopher Walken) is diagnosed with a terminal illness, the future of the group is thrown into question. Peter’s attempt to find a replacement player and organise rehearsals for their upcoming concert brings up unresolved issues and grievances.
Second violinist Robert (Philip Seymour Hoffman) longs to be the lead. Viola-player Juliette, (Catherine Keener) and wife to Robert, steadfastly refuses to consider the quartet without Peter.
Alliances are forged, egos bruised and passions flare as the dysfunctional family of artists begin to implode. Can they pull together for one final great performance – of Beethoven’s Opus 131 at Carnegie Hall?
Directed by Yaron Zilberman, Performance is a captivating meditation on aging, creativity, sacrifice and artistic dedication, anchored by superb performances and a stirring classical score.
Sunday Star Times 4/5 “Extraordinarily effective and satisfying.”
NZ Herald 4/5 “Sometimes silly, mostly sublime.”
Catch Performance at the Raglan Old School Arts Centre on Saturday 20 July, 8pm and Sunday 21 July, 4.30pm.
Licensed bar and delicious homemade snacks on sale.
Adults $11, children $6. Phone 825 0023 to reserve seats, or email info@raglanartscentre.co.nz