By Gavin Gaka
Pain and art often go hand-in-hand. Is this not how Vincent van Gogh created his work?
Vincent tells the story of van Gogh beyond his art. We learn of his story; how he too was just another human being desiring what we all crave, love.
The story of the pained artist is told through the incredible vocal performance of Daniel Anderson and the soothing and striking notes of pianist, Jacques du Plessis..Through the powerful reimaginings of popular musical theatre, pop, rock and jazz numbers – we gain insight into the life of the painter who is famously known for his strong emotions.
The account of his personal stories demonstrate his personal failures, the disapproval of his family, and the rejection that became all too familiar for van Gogh. In his pursuit of love, van Gogh, like many, lost himself. However, the cabaret-style performance makes way for an appreciation of life – a commemoration of both the good and bad, the perfectly imperfect.
We are also privy to his intimate moments – such as the reading of letters he wrote to his closest confidant; his brother. These scenes are expressed in an irresistibly humorous fashion. Daniel Anderson performs a van Gogh impression that could make any one erupt with involuntary giggles.
The performance also reveals golden insights into the inspiration behind his most famous artworks, and his complicated relationship with religion.
Ultimately Vincent weaves together the story of a complex man. Through the powerful performance of Anderson, and beautiful accompaniment of du Plesis, we come to admire his humaneness, his shortcomings, personal experiences, and drive to love and be loved… just like the rest of us.
