Van Gogh & me

Au Contraire Productions presents Van Gogh & Me, a new play written by John Retallack from an original idea by actor Jack Ellis.
Olivier Award-winning theatre maker John Retallack and acclaimed actor Jack Ellis are reuniting for the first time in over 40 years with Van Gogh & Me, a deeply personal new play exploring the relationship between Van Gogh and Gauguin. With over 20 paintings, it tells the extraordinary story of the intense, nine-week collaboration between Van Gogh and Gauguin in Arles in 1888.
Performed by Jack Ellis, who moves fluidly between an unstable, chaotic Van Gogh and a domineering, self-assured Gauguin, the piece dissects a tragic clash of egos. By playing both men (and himself), Ellis lays bare the undercurrents of toxic masculinity and competitive pride that fuelled their isolation—bringing to life a creative partnership that not only may have changed modern art but proved profoundly destructive for at least one of them.
As the show ends, the audience is invited to remain for a 30-minute interactive gathering. Spectators can step directly onto the stage, examine Rachel Marston’s canvas reproductions up close, and discuss the play openly with Ellis.
Van Gogh & Me will premiere at the Edinburgh Fringe on August 15th at the Dovecot Studios and have a run of 21 performances.