By Mark Clayton Southers
Directed by Monteze Freeland
April 11th – May 4th 2025
Madison Arts Center
Art of Wise uncovers centuries of revisionist history through the paint strokes of two families, one owned by the other yet sharing the same name. At the story’s core, two young women’s potential friendship takes a dramatic turn, with their remarkable artworks becoming a means for one family to attain freedom. This gripping drama opens wounds of the past yet uses art to soothe through music, dance, song, and masterful illustration.
Set in 1822, this is the fifth play in Mark Clayton Southers’ 19th Century Collection, which includes such acclaimed works as Miss Julie, Clarissa, and John (PPTCO, 2016-2017), Savior Samuel (PPTCO, 2019), The Bluegrass Mile (PPTCO, 2023), and The Coffin Maker (Pittsburgh Public Theatre, 2024).
Performances:
Fri Apr 11 2025, 8 PM (Opening)
Sat Apr 12 2025, 8 PM
Sun Apr 13 2025, 3 PM
Mon Apr 14 2025, 7 PM (Pay what you can)
Fri Apr 18 2025, 8 PM
Sat Apr 19 2025, 3 PM (Pay what you can)
Sat Apr 19 2025, 8 PM
Sun Apr 20 2025, 3 PM
Thu Apr 24 2025, 10 AM (Student matinee)
Fri Apr 25 2025, 8 PM
Sat Apr 26 2025, 3 PM
Sat Apr 26 2025, 8 PM
Sun Apr 27 2025, 3 PM
Thu May 1 2025, 10 AM (Student matinee)
Fri May 2 2025, 8 PM
Sat May 3 2025, 3 PM
Sat May 3 2025, 8 PM
Sun May 4 2025, 3 PM