Stage play about Van Gogh

Vincent, a stage play about one of the world's most brilliant painters, Dutchman Vincent Van Gogh, is being performed at Peninsula Theatre until May 10.

The play, written by by Leonard Nimoy of Star Trek fame, is being performed during this, Van Gough's 150th birth anniversary year, by Sydney actor Greg Kennedy.

Mr Kennedy said: "This is a story of a special bond held between two brothers.

"This remarkable relationship was recorded in some 1600 letters written between the two.

"At Vincent's funeral, Theo was so overcome with emotion he was unable to speak.

"One week later he hires a lecture hall in Paris and invites, anyone who would like to hear him speak about his loved brother, to come along.

"Like many artists of his time, Vincent was sadly misunderstood by most.

"When Vincent finally achieved his own greatness, at age 37, he sadly took his own life.

"He died in Theo's arms.

"Suffering from terrors of epilepsy, the unconditional love and support he received from his brother Theo, was not enough.

"This story is re-lived as the final 13 years of Vincent's life is told.

"I found this such an extraordinarily moving and passionate piece of writing.

"My joy is to be able to perform Leonard's work in such a personal and positive light.

"For me, the play holds a most timely and modern theme of one man's struggle to allow others to view the world and all within it, with a special vision of beauty, love and peace," Mr Kennedy said.

The play has been performed by Leonard Nimoy to capacity audiences all over the world.

There was a sellout season on Broadway and a PBS special which aired Nimoy's production was his last performance of this play.

Greg Kennedy, originally from the Central Coast, has performed in theatre, television and film, as well as doing role play acting for many large corporations.

He has appeared in many commercials on TV and has trained at Darlinghurst Drama and Nida in their open programme.

His theatre lead credits include Tennesee Williams' "Period of Adjustment", "Wild Guys", "The Bold and the Reckless", "A Chorus of Disapproval", "Fossils", "Our Country's Good" and "Cosi".

Vincent opened at the Peninsula Theatre on Wednesday, April 30, and runs through to Saturday, May 10.

Tickets are $28 (full), $23 (concession) and group discounts are available.

Press release, April 16