Provenance
24 June 2025
Barons Court Theatre
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Provenance is currently running at the Barons Court Theatre until 28 June, where it examines identity, connection, and what art means to the soul.
Ellie is a stroppy 20-something from a difficult background, she finds herself in a mentorship program that could change her future for good, but when she meets her new mentor Patrick, things run off the rails faster than anticipated. Paul is in his late forties, an established abstract painter who shuts himself away in his studio and joined the mentorship program to give back to the community, or perhaps out of boredom. The mismatched pair are worlds apart in class, education, and cultural experiences, can they make this mentorship work and learn from each other?
A fierce and insolent young woman disillusioned with the world, prickling with self-defensive hostility and aggressive humour, finds herself opposite an erudite, eloquent, and very evasive older man who struggles with not immediately being seen as an authority figure. While they squabble at first, the conversation cleverly ebbs and flows, exploring many topics surrounding human connection and the purpose of art. There is a particular beauty to the way roles are constantly reversed, antagonist turning into defender with just a few pointed words, a constant push and pull of wills and differing experiences.
Provenance takes a deep look at what makes us human, what purpose does art have for the soul, and how we define success and value in our lives. The vehicle for this discussion is very cleverly chosen, presenting two polar opposites who both yearn for connection and meaning in contrary ways. As they both crack each other’s souls open to explore what lies within, the conversation is incredibly well written and full of twists, turns, and humorous moments. An absolute gem of a show, Provenance is a philosophical mediation on human connection, beautifully wrapped in a compelling, absorbing narrative that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt a little lost at sea in life.
