Clemson University Symphonic Band

November 23rd, 2009 at 8:00 pm - As the top auditioned group of wind and percussion musicians at Clemson University, the Symphonic Ba Learn More...

Free (no ticket required)

Purchase Tickets For All Events

Clemson University Choral Ensembles

December 1st, 2009 at 8:00 pm - The Department of Performing Arts introduces its new choral director, Justin Durham, in a program of Learn More...

$8 adults/$5 students (general seating)

Purchase Tickets For All Events

Clemson University Symphony Orchestra

December 3rd, 2009 at 8:00 pm - Popular orchestral hits fill this winter program, from the “Waltz” and “Polonaise” of Tchaikovsky’s Learn More...

$5 adults/students free (general seating)

Purchase Tickets For All Events

The Spirit of Christmas

December 8th, 2009 at 8:00 pm - The Spirit of Christmas takes you on a magical journey to a winter wonderland of fun and festive che Learn More...

$30 adults/$20 students

Purchase Tickets For All Events

Tony DeSare, vocalist

January 14th, 2010 at 8:00 pm - Singer, pianist, and songwriter Tony DeSare has earned critical acclaim for his performances at the Learn More...

$20 adults/$10 students

Purchase Tickets For All Events

The Power Behind the Palette

November 22nd, 2009 at 3:00 pm

In standing with a long tradition of presenting new work, the Department of Performing Arts, the Clemson Players, and the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts will premiere a new play chronicling the life of Ambroise Vollard, a noted 19th century art dealer and publisher.
“The Power Behind the Palette” is the most recent drama written by Clemson University resident playwright, Mark Charney.

Press Release

In standing with a long tradition of presenting new work, the Department of Performing Arts, the Clemson Players, and the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts will premiere a new play chronicling the life of Ambroise Vollard, a noted 19th century art dealer and publisher.

“The Power Behind the Palette” is the most recent drama written by Clemson University resident playwright, Mark Charney. “The Power Behind the Palette” opens Monday, Nov. 16, and continues through Sunday, Nov. 22.

An important figure in contemporary art, Vollard (1867-1939) recognized and sponsored several leading artists of the Paris School early in their careers. “Cezanne, Degas, Gauguin, Matisse, and even Picasso were among his clients,” said Charney. He championed their work long before they were popular, often mounting one-man exhibitions in his gallery.”

“The Power Behind the Palette” examines many moments in Vollard’s life, presenting snapshots that depict his interests, arguments, struggles, and especially the mystery surrounding his death.

The play also looks at the inevitable conflicts between commerce and arts.

“Vollard purchased the art of these artists when there was no market for their works,” explained Charney. “His investments were small and he accumulated their works for years. When the artists achieved both popular and critical acclaim, he sold his collections to eager patrons and dealers at considerable profits, thus acquiring great wealth.”

The play emphasizes the dependence that exists between art and commerce, chronicling the resentment such dependence creates. “‘The Power Behind the Palette’ forces audiences to confront their ideas about art, and how much it depends on commercialism to survive,” Charney said.

“The Power Behind the Palette” is the culmination of a year of research involving 10 performing arts students. The play is part of the university’s Creative Inquiry initiative, where students conduct original research and report their findings. Their investigation not only included research into Vollard, but turn of the century French culture, said Charney. “The students looked into all aspects of French life, including manners, domestic life, and business practices. And, of course, the heart of their work involved the art and the artists.”

This semester, the students continue their research. It includes explorations of art produced in the late-1800s or work that depicts art produced at that time, especially concentrating on character work during rehearsal. “We have analyzed the 1896 French play ‘Ubu Roi,’ as well as critiqued the musicals ‘Sunday in the Park with George,’ and ‘Amadeus.’ What’s more, we read Vollard’s many books—including his autobiography, and many critical examinations of artists,” said Charney. “Now it’s time to direct our energies towards producing the play.”

In addition, the play will include original scenic, costume, and lighting designs conceived by performing arts faculty and students. Original music for the play is being developed with students and Rick Goodstein, a professor of music and chair of the performing arts department. Goodstein also serves as a co-faculty leader on the project.

“‘The Power Behind the Palette’ is funny, sexy, erudite, and thought-provoking,” added Charney. “It asks its audiences to challenge themselves and remain active throughout the performance, but it promises to entertain along the journey.”

Purchase Tickets For All Events