Paris Theatre Production 'Les Amours de Pablo' Highlights Picasso's Partners as Artists

A theatrical production titled 'Les Amours de Pablo' is being staged at the Studio Hébertot in Paris, running through the end of May. The play, created by the company Bille en Tête, focuses on Pablo Picasso's romantic relationships, portraying seven of his partners with nuance. It emphasizes that these women were often artists themselves, such as Françoise Gilot, who caught the attention of dealer Daniel-Henry Kahnweiler, and Olga Khokhlova, a dancer with a distinct accent. Performer Anne Marquot-Picasso, who has no direct familial link to the artist, embodies all the companions on stage, accompanied by pianist Romain Vaille. The production uses minimal set design, featuring two large veils with splashes that transform under lighting by Frédérique Steiner-Sarrieux. Marquot-Picasso, a former model, draws from extensive research into Picasso's women, including observations on the sizes of canvases he dedicated to each. The play aims to contribute to contemporary reinterpretations of Picasso's life and his close associates, highlighting their artistic contributions and personal struggles. It avoids presenting the women merely as muses, instead framing them as active participants in his life. The performance is noted for its intimate and explosive portrayal of Picasso as both a dedicated artist and a complex partner. Details are available on the Studio Hébertot website, located at 78 Boulevard des Batignolles in Paris's 75017 district.