Broadway will welcome back the Tony Award-winning play “ART” with a star-studded revival this fall, as Neil Patrick Harris, James Corden, and Bobby Cannavale take center stage at the Music Box Theatre in New York City. Previews begin August 28, 2025, with an official opening on September 16 and a limited run through December 21.
Originally debuting on Broadway in 1998, Yasmina Reza’s “ART” is a razor-sharp comedy that dissects male friendship through the lens of contemporary art. The story is sparked by a controversial purchase: a large, all-white minimalist painting. As the characters debate its artistic merit and price tag, deeper rifts in their friendship begin to surface.
The new production marks the first Broadway revival of the acclaimed play and reunites three theatrical heavyweights. Neil Patrick Harris returns to the stage after his acclaimed turn in “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” (2014). James Corden makes his Broadway comeback following his Tony-winning performance in “One Man, Two Guvnors” (2012), and Bobby Cannavale, a two-time Tony nominee, also rejoins the Great White Way.
Star-Studded Cast Brings New Energy
In this revival, Harris plays Serge, the man who purchases the controversial painting. Corden takes on the role of Yvan, the neurotic peacemaker caught between his feuding friends. Cannavale plays Marc, who is incredulous and disturbed by Serge’s aesthetic choices. Their interactions evolve into an intense exploration of taste, pride, and personal values.
Director Scott Ellis, a Tony nominee known for helming both comedic and dramatic works, leads this high-profile revival. His direction aims to reintroduce “ART” to a modern audience while preserving its sharp wit and timeless themes. Ellis describes the play as “a portrait of friendship on the edge,” and his minimalist yet emotionally rich staging seeks to highlight the psychological layers of the characters.
What Makes ‘ART’ Enduring?
Yasmina Reza’s “ART” was originally written in French and translated into English by playwright Christopher Hampton. The English version opened in London in 1996 before transferring to Broadway in 1998, where it won the Tony Award for Best Play. Its universal themes—loyalty, insecurity, and the subjectivity of taste—resonate just as powerfully today.
The central painting in “ART” is more than just a canvas; it becomes a metaphor for the values each character clings to and the fragility of their long-standing friendships. The audience is invited to question not just the painting’s worth, but what each man truly values in his relationships.
Venue and Ticket Information
The Music Box Theatre, an iconic Broadway venue known for its intimate setting and historic charm, will house the production. The limited 17-week engagement is expected to draw large crowds, especially with such a high-caliber trio leading the cast.
Tickets will go on sale to the general public starting May 30, with a presale event beginning May 29. Given the buzz around the production and its limited run, early ticket acquisition is recommended.
A Cultural Moment
The revival of “ART” is more than a theatrical event—it’s a cultural statement. In an era dominated by social media and shifting aesthetics, the play’s themes feel particularly relevant. What constitutes real art? How do we validate our own opinions amid peer pressure? And can friendships survive honest disagreement?
These questions are especially pertinent to American audiences, who continue to navigate the intersection of personal identity and public perception. With its humorous yet thought-provoking approach, “ART” provides both entertainment and introspection.
Final Thoughts
With its blend of star power, intellectual depth, and proven theatrical pedigree, the 2025 revival of “ART” is poised to be one of Broadway’s most talked-about productions. Audiences can expect laughter, tension, and a poignant reminder of what it means to truly see—both art and each other.
By Indigo James, Senior Correspondent
