The Newtown Amateur Dramatic Society (NADS) will present the acclaimed play ART at the Powys Theatre this February. Written by Yasmina Reza, this internationally celebrated comedy-drama dives into themes of friendship, taste, and the true significance of art. Critics have lauded the play as “remarkably wise, witty and intelligent” according to The Times, while the Financial Times describes it as “invigorating and touching.”
Since its debut, ART has achieved remarkable success, including a notable run in London’s West End and performances in various theatres throughout the UK. The play received the prestigious Molière Award for Best Commercial Production in 1995 and the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy in 1997. The narrative revolves around three friends whose relationship faces challenges when one acquires an expensive piece of modern art, notably a completely white painting. This setup leads to a sharp, humorous, and insightful exploration of loyalty, ego, and the subjective nature of beauty.
Director and Cast Insights
The production will be directed by Julia Francis, a long-time admirer of the work. She expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “It’s a joy to bring this celebrated piece to Newtown, to stage a work that blends humour with such perceptive insights into human relationships.” Audiences can look forward to an engaging evening as Craig Harris, Alex Anton-Stephens, and Gavin Grosvenor portray the complex characters central to the story.
This performance offers a unique opportunity for theatre-goers to ponder the ultimate question posed by the play: What is art really worth?
A Legacy of Local Theatre
The Newtown Amateur Dramatics Society has been a vital part of the local theatre scene for 90 years. It has evolved from a small community group into a well-established charity with a permanent home at the Powys Theatre. Throughout its history, the society has provided a platform for local individuals to engage in acting, directing, and backstage roles, thereby sustaining a tradition of live drama in the town.
Established in the mid-1930s, NADS celebrated its 90th anniversary in July 2025 with a special production, underscoring its ongoing relevance as a cherished institution in Newtown. This milestone highlights its enduring legacy in the community, continuing to bring a variety of performances—including comedy, tragedy, and drama—to local audiences nearly a century later.
In its early years, the society followed a common pattern among amateur groups, staging straightforward plays and light comedies in borrowed venues before securing a permanent residence. Since then, the Newtown Amateur Dramatics Society has made significant contributions to the cultural fabric of the town, offering generations of performers a consistent platform to showcase their talents.
As the curtain rises on ART, the society invites the community to support local theatre and engage with this thought-provoking piece that challenges perceptions of art and friendship.
