The Hartford Stage presents The Bay at Nice written by Sir David Hare. Russia’s famed Hermitage museum is bequeathed a mysterious painting believed to be the work of Matisse. Unable to authenticate the pedigree of the artwork, the curator calls in Valentina Nrovka, a harsh woman who studied with the French master during her youth. While at the museum, Valentina’s daughter Sophia makes a surprise revelation. The discussion that ensues pits freedom against duty, French bohemia against Communist control, and a mother’s strong will against a daughter’s desire to assert herself. A witty and provocative evening of theatre directed by Michael Wilson, and featuring Oscar-winner Estelle Parsons.