The Collaboration, currently playing at the Young Vic Theatre, is more than just a painting. It's an exploration into opposing forces colliding as two artists discover their own motivations within the business of creating art.

Yes, it's a lot - this certainly isn't casual viewing, it's not trying to be. This play (penned by Anthony McCarten), whilst having a few comedic moments, always takes itself seriously. It's the right balance of entertainment and insight, and while the bulk of the narrative happens in the outside world, the audience is invited into the lives of these two artists (Warhol played by Paul Bettany and Basquiat by Jeremy Pope) and their reactions to one another and the world around them.

Paul Bettany is captivating as Andy Warhol. His energy onstage is magnetic, creating a laid back physicality whilst his personality is uptight. The character is full of eccentric contradictions that Bettany just makes work on stage. It's completely believable. Commendation must also be given to his versatility; this is a far cry from the robotic Vision we are used to seeing him perform as in the Marvel films!

Jeremy Pope is a perfect foil to this in every way. Ever bit as captivating as Bettany but in a completely different way. The amount of work he has put into this role is undeniable, especially during the emotional climax of the show in Act 2, which is shocking, heartfelt and truly earned within the script.

Of course in a show called The Collaboration, the crux of the show are the interactions between these two. It's what 90% of the play is - there are no big dance numbers, no big flashy scenery or lighting. Yet, thanks to the excellent chemistry on stage, at no point do the audience become disengaged.

A shout-out must also be given to the stage management team for this production, who had a massive scene change to take care of during the interval. SM teams are often overlooked in theatre but with *so* many props to take care of in disco lighting with music blaring; well done to you all!

We recommend this show to seasoned theatre goers; those who are looking for something thought provoking and something you need to be engaged with from start to finish.

A play containing truly transformative acting from not just Bettany and Pope, but the brilliant Alec Newman and Sofia Barclay as well.

Intense, gripping and magnetic.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Callum Wallace

The Collaboration runs at the Young Vic Theatre until 2 April, with tickets available here.