A Riveting Rivalry Between Renaissance Giants: High-Stakes Drama and Clever Wit
The Contest is a captivating historical drama that brings to life the legendary rivalry between Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci during the height of the Italian Renaissance. Written and directed by Gary Graves, the play transports the audience to Florence in 1504, where these two titans of art are commissioned to paint murals in the Great Hall of the Palazzo Vecchio. Their competition is not just about artistic superiority, but about their very legacies and the future of Renaissance art itself.
The play sets up a dramatic clash of egos and ideals. Leonardo da Vinci, the established master of science and art, is pitted against Michelangelo, the young and passionate sculptor who has just completed his iconic David. Their contrasting approaches to art—Leonardo’s meticulous, intellectual style versus Michelangelo’s raw, emotional intensity—are at the core of this narrative. Adding to the tension is Niccolò Machiavelli, the cunning political figure who orchestrates this contest, turning it into a battle not just of skill but of wills.
The performances by Nathaniel Andalis (Michelangelo Buonarroti), Alan Coyne (Niccolò Machiavelli), and Christopher Herold (Leonardo da Vinci) are terrific. The trio skillfully navigates the fine line between ambition and insecurity, giving depth to their portrayals of these historical figures. The sharp, clever script brings a layer of intellectual playfulness to the production, with moments of biting wit and humor, especially in the verbal sparring between the artists.
An interesting element in The Contest is the clever use of projected visuals by the character of Leonardo da Vinci. These projections offer glimpses into his scientific and artistic mind, using diagrams and sketches from his work. The slides add humor and creativity, contrasting Leonardo’s intellectual approach with Michelangelo’s emotional intensity. This modern touch brings lightheartedness to the historical drama, making it both engaging and entertaining for the audience.
The actors further enhance this experience by creating the murals with their words and gestures. Through their expressive performances, the audience is drawn into a world where they “see” what is not physically present—imaginative and wonderful scenes of artistry and competition. This subtle magic allows the production to be visually stunning without elaborate props or set pieces, showcasing the talent of the performers and the power of theatrical imagination.
The intimate setting of the Berkeley City Club plays a significant role in enhancing the impact of the production. With a seating capacity of 49 seats, the venue allows for an exceptionally immersive experience. The small theater space ensures that every movement and word resonates with the audience, making the tension between Michelangelo and Leonardo all the more palpable and personal. The close quarters create an atmosphere where the audience is fully absorbed into the intense rivalry unfolding on stage.
Gary Graves, the playwright and director, is a Central Works veteran who has been instrumental in the development of over 75 world premieres. His ability to craft compelling narratives rooted in history, art, and political intrigue shines in The Contest. The clever script—filled with moments of subtle irony and humor—adds an extra layer of enjoyment to this rich historical drama. The play is part of a larger thematic series, The Prince, of which The Contest is “Part 3,” continuing Central Works’ tradition of creating plays that examine power dynamics, politics, and human ambition.
The Contest is a gripping exploration of genius, competition, and the quest for immortality through art. It is a play that will resonate with lovers of history, art, and intellectual drama. With its clever dialogue, creative use of visuals, terrific performances, and thoughtful direction, The Contest stands as a must-see production for the theater season.
