A new revival of Leonard Nimoy’s Vincent will come to Camden People’s Theatre from 14 to 23 January, bringing the life and legacy of Vincent van Gogh to the stage through the artist’s own correspondence.
Performed by Richard Canal Tinius, the one-man play is inspired by more than 500 letters exchanged between van Gogh and his younger brother Theo. Set one week after the artist’s death, the drama follows Theo as he revisits their years of correspondence, reflecting on his brother’s life, art and enduring impact.
Written by Star Trek legend Leonard Nimoy, Vincent offers a perspective on van Gogh that moves beyond the familiar image of the tortured artist. Instead, it explores grief, mental illness, family bonds and the transformative power of art.
The production features more than 250 projected images of van Gogh’s paintings, creating a visual backdrop as Richard Canal Tinius brings both Vincent and Theo to life on stage.
Profits from the production will be donated to the mental health charity Mind UK.
Vincent was first written and performed by Nimoy in 1978, based on Philip Stephens’ stage play Van Gogh. Nimoy went on to perform the work around 150 times before it was adapted into a television film in 1981.
Performer Richard Canal Tinius said, “Nimoy’s Vincent is unique in that, while other interpretations of van Gogh have mostly depicted him as a madman, monk, masochist, martyr, and more – framing his genius as a side effect of mental illness instead of the result of resilience in spite of his struggles – Vincent instead humanises him as a devotee of God, humanity, love, and art. Mental illness is too often either romanticised or demonised; especially in the age of tabloids and social media. Creatives’ personalities, passions, and perspectives are overshadowed in the public opinion by their pathologies. By presenting van Gogh simply as a man in search for meaning via purpose, Vincent offers a fresh point of view to people with preconceived notions of mental illness, and solace to some who – like me, as a bipolar and neurodivergent performer – have firsthand experience. People worldwide are fascinated by van Gogh because he was remarkable, yes, yet even more so because he was relatable.”
The production is directed by Cody Stuckenschneider, with design by Richard Canal Tinius. The revival marks the debut production of Tinius’ new theatre company, which will focus on solo works inspired by real and imagined historical figures.
Running for 90 minutes without an interval, Vincent is recommended for audiences aged 12 and above.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
