The Chazen Museum of Art and Madison Repertory Theatre will host a special preview reception for the Rep’s production of Permanent Collection, a play by Thomas Gibbons. The reception will be held from 6:30-8 p.m. on February 21, 2008, in Paige Court at the Chazen, with scenes from the play, a silent auction, special discount coupons for guests, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar. The silent auction will include 4 paintings and 1 sculpture donated by Janus Galleries, Madison, Wisconsin.

In Permanent Collection, an African American businessman named Sterling North is appointed director of the Morris Foundation, a little known gallery in a predominantly white suburb. There he discovers that the gallery, which houses masterpieces by Picasso, Renoir, Cezanne, and Matisse, also has a distinctive selection of African art tucked away in its archives. His proposal to display the art in the galleries is sternly opposed by Paul Barrow, the institution’s long-time education director, setting in motion a culture clash. Permanent Collection runs March 7-30, 2008, and features Patrick Sims, last seen in Home and Our Town.

The play asks many important questions such as: Who defines “Art,” and who owns it? How permanent are these definitions? And who decides what will be displayed in a museum? A play addressing assumptions about politics and art presented a unique opportunity for two organizations of the visual and performing arts to join in celebrating the freedoms that contribute to a vibrant creative community.

Admission is $25 per person and reservations are required. Guests may reserve space by calling Erin at the Madison Repertory Theatre, 608 256-0029 x17.

Click here for information about the silent auction and the play Permanent Collection.