Self-Portrait in a Blue Room

A world-famous artist is in the ante room to the Oval Office, fuming over why he has allowed his ego to rule his pride and stoop to accept the cultural arts medal from a mere president of the United States. His 30-years-younger partner attempts to mollify him, minutes before the encounter takes place.

Chris Stack and Larry Pine, Ensemble Studio Theatre, 2007. (Photograph by Carol Rosegg.)
Chris Stack and Larry Pine, Ensemble Studio Theatre, 2007. (Photograph by Carol Rosegg.)
Cast Requirements

2 men

Set Description

Fixed set

Press

"In Self-Portrait in a Blue Room, a sharp romantic piece by Daniel Reitz, an aging artist [prepares] to meet with the president of the United States to receive an award. He has the dignified face of royalty in decline, which is perfect for this dying master whose charm and wit are no match for his monumental ego. Julian can be cruel, especially to his patient and far younger boyfriend, Chad, but a touching vulnerability and fear of death emerges between biting barbs."
--The New York Times

Press

Production and Development History

Produced: Ensemble Studio Theatre Marathon; HB Playwrights Foundation Theatre.