Picasso at the Lapin Agile and Other Plays

although I adore Steve Martin's humor and the setting with Picasso and Einstein together had me salivating, the prose left something to be desired.

I think in reality this probably deserves 4 stars, but I love "Picasso at the Lapin Agile" too much to rate it anything below 5. It's a great read and a lot of fun to act. It's funny on so many levels - everything from wacky and silly to crude to smart to dry humor down to the very subtle (like having an "e-shaped pie."... it's a math joke (pi)). The ideas in it are great, and I especially enjoyed comparing science to art. It's as much fun to think about intellectually as it is to see the different characters bounce off of each other. It's the kind of play that reaches everyone differently - especially through the various types of humor.The other plays are so-so, some better than others. I like them for their read, but it's harder to see them as plays - perhaps I'm wrong. I liked Floating Lady because of the emotions and intensity I imagined as I performed it in my head. I liked Zig-Zag Woman because it was kind of cute, but I think I expected too much of the ending as I read it, so was a little disappointed. WASP was also somewhat interesting to read and draw ideas from, but as a play in and of itself I didn't enjoy it very much.Hope that helps. In the end, just buy it for "Picasso..."

Very interesting treatment of Picasso, Einstein, and "the man on the street". Amusing dialogue illustrates views on each particular discipline (science and art) and inserts a spirituality to Einstein's character. Interesting that Picasso's dialogue doesn't seem to be as spiritual - but more carnal. And later in the play - to insert the surprise character of Elvis (unidentified) - and that character's insightful views - and bounce them off the artist's and scientist's conversations.Didn't enjoy the Zig Zag Woman as much. Need to read it again. I'm certain I missed something.Didn't know Steve Martin had such depth!!

Steve Martin is at his wild and crazy best with this collection. He sets up a wonderful scenario for his stage creations in the main piece,"Picasso," but "Zig Zag Woman," one of the shorter offerings here, is worth a read as well. If you're a theater actor or director looking for an unusual play audiences haven't already seen a million times, this might be just the right selection. While all the plays are comedic, they're also deep enough ( and weird enough) to really make you think. Very highly recommended.

This is a gift for a friend merely because I could not let loose of my own copy of this great read. Intellectually stimulating and funny at the same time. What kind of mind comes up with this concept???

The play was good, and I enjoyed it. As far as the comedy goes, it was very witty and quick which I greatly appreciated. It was a surprise to see that Steve Martin is writing plays and they display his quick wit in abundance. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is the content. I don't appreciate plays that put unnecessary language or vulgarity.

This is a play worth having and definitely, worth seeing, if you have that opportunity. It is clever, it is deep, it's about fun and a very wonderful premise, being, what would happen if these characters from the past, found their way to a cafe, and could converse together. Einstein and Picasso! And more... There are surprises and certainly time collapses and we do as well, in laughter and thought. It's a Bravo performance and a play worth having. It's also about art, being more than, art full (artful).

Would love to direct any one of these. What I have seen on You Tube is a bit too stagey. But for characters who are really operating in their heads, I suppose it's appropriate. Martin gives and gives and gives, and we must be there, at least philosophically, to catch his ironies.

Wouldn't have expected a truly inspiring funny comedy from him, you can take it deep or light-hearted, it is a true discovery.

I've seen this 2x onstage and LOVED it very much. One of Mr. Martin's best wrioting for me to date.

Needed for drama school.