LEWISTON — “ Red,” which won a Tony Award, opens tonight at the Public Theatre, 31 Maple St.

“This masterpiece of theater and art is a love letter to the creative spirit within each of us, and a thrilling glimpse into the mind of a great artist struggling with his ego, his conscience, and his art,” a Public Theatre release states.

The release describes the plot as follows:

Under the gaze of his assistant and the threatening presence of a new generation of artists, abstract expressionist Mark Rothko confronts the pressure of his own popularity when he accepts the biggest commission in the history of modern art and paints a series of murals to hang in the famous Four Seasons restaurant.

When his young assistant gains the confidence to challenge his artistic integrity, Rothko must face the agonizing possibility that his crowning achievement could also be his undoing.

Electrifying and entertaining, “Red” paints an unforgettable portrait of an artist’s ambition and vulnerability as he tries to create a definitive work of art.

Christopher Schario directs the production.

“‘ Red’ drops you inside Rothko’s studio, surrounds you with his paintings and sets your heart pounding,” Schario said in the release. “The great thing about this play is that you don’t need to be a painter to appreciate it, (however if you are one, this play will probably set you on fire). Aside from the fascinating historical story, the play also speaks volumes about the vulnerability and passion that is present in every creative process.”

Joel Leffert of New York City plays Rothko. Canadian actor Anthony Johnston plays Ken, Rothko’s assistant.

A giant Rothko painting used in the production will be recreated by artist Gordon Carlisle. They will hang in the set designed by Jennifer Madigan, lit by Bart Garvey and will share the stage with the actors in their paint spattered clothing designed by Kathleen Brown.

Performances are at 7: 30 p. m. today, March 22 and March 23; 8 p.m. Saturday and March 24; and 2 p.m. Sunday and March 25. A special matinee is scheduled for 2 p. m. March 24. Morning student matinee performances are also available.

Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for groups of 10 or more, and $ 5 for anyone 18 and younger. For tickets, call 782- 3200.

For more information, visit www.thepublictheatre,org.