Dramatic Art

Juvenal Merst was an American artist known for his minimalist sculpture and photography. But who was he, really? And why did history nearly forget him, despite his enormous contributions to art? Such is the substance of The Juvenal Players, directed by Pablo Helguera and featuring curators and art critics familiar with Merst’s life and work. It was Merst’s request that such a tribute be carried out a few years after his death. The Juvenal Players premieres from 6 to 9 p.m. today at Grand Arts (1819 Grand). Additional performances are at 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday. A brief discussion precedes each performance, and an extended discussion follows Saturday’s shows. Admission is free, but reservations for Saturday’s show are required; call 816-421-6887.

Fri., June 12, 6-9 p.m.; Sat., June 13, 2 & 8 p.m., 2009