Vincent Deconstructed

Reviewed by Neal Weaver
Sacred Fools Theatre
Through June 26

The Vincent in question is the painter Vincent Van Gogh, famous for his internal conflicts and lack of worldly success. In this piece, writer-director Elissa Anne Polansky seems to suggest that his problems were rooted in his uncertainty as to who he really wanted to be: painter, lover, preacher, or social savior.

While he is a patient in the Asylum at Arles, Vincent (Alex Walters) comes to believe that he is quite literally splitting in two, becoming simultaneously both the artist at his easel and the sleeper in his bed. Desperately trying to hold onto his sanity, he seeks out Agostina (Tara McGrath), with whom he once had a disastrous affair. He frantically tries to convince her that he has changed, but though she loves him, she’s not convinced.

Polansky’s production is illuminated by projections of Vincent’s works and punctuated with excerpts from his letters to his ever-loyal brother Theo. But the continual shift of focus and the many blackouts and stage-waits vitiate her play.

Actaeon Players at Sacred Fools Theatre @ Black Box, 6322 Santa Monica Boulevard, Hollywood; https://www.hollywoodfringe.org/projects/3782. Running time: One hour.