McCarty, Biver, Golden

A scientist and an artist walk into a bar, thus setting up Steve Martin's 1993 play, Picasso at the Lapin Agile-in production through February 13 at The Complex in Hollywood. It just so happens that the scientist in question is Albert Einstein (a frantic Jonathan Biver) and the artist is Pablo Picasso (the suave Brandon Morgan).

In Martin's scenario, the year is 1904, and Einstein is on the brink of at last publishing his Special Theory of Relativity (done in 1905), while Picasso is about to begin painting his masterpiece, "Les Demoiselles d' Avignon" (completed in 1907). Their coincidental meeting takes place in Paris, and their pub of choice is known as the Lapin Agile (Nimble Rabbit). Like the "Cheers" tavern of late 20th century TV fame, it is replete with a motley bunch of boozers, losers, wannabe lovers, and intriguing others.

Directed at a quick clip by Justin Gordon, with a French Country scenic design by Andrew McCarty (who also produced the show and ably plays the bar's owner/operator, Freddy), Picasso is a light frolic which parallels and compares the arts and sciences as complementary forms of expression and comprehension.

In the director's notes, Gordon writes, "It seems fitting... to reexamine this play during a time when our own world is ripe for reinvention." Aptly stated. Further, Martin  has said of his own script, "Focusing on Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity and Picasso's..."Demoiselles d' Avignon," the play attempts to explain, in a lighthearted way, the similarity of the creative process involved in great leaps of imagination in art and science."

Never fear. Gordon and his game cast-including Quinn Mattfield's ebullient portrayal of Martin's alter-ego, Schmendiman; lovely Maria Pallas as Germaine; Joe Thomas, convincing as the bladder-obsessed Gaston; and Aaron Golden as an unlikely visitor from the future-keep the action moving, even if the comedy often comes in at less than the speed of light.

Picasso at the Lapin Agile continues at the Complex Theatre-6468 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles-through February 13. Show times are Thursday – Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. For reservations dial, (323) 960 – 7714. For more information visit, www.complexhollywood.com.