Theatre / God of Carnage, by Yasmina Reza, translated by Christopher Hampton. Directed by Jordan Best for Echo Theatre. At The Q until August 31. Reviewed by ARNE SJOSTEDT.
If a play can make you forget you are sitting in a theatre watching a show unfold, and instead pick you up and take you on a ride, then it has succeeded.
And that is what this production of God of Carnage has done.
There was a consistent sense of precision and commitment to execution in this play that didn’t lose its grip.
A fast-paced show with all kinds of complex dimensions, it was like getting in a slightly shoddy car and going on a high-speed trip down a windy, somewhat unpredictable road. With the characters clinging on and trying to keep their civility while being thrown from one side of the car to the other, there was little time for them to settle down and enjoy the view. Instead, all they could do was experience, and contribute to, the carnage.
The story revolves around two sets of parents meeting to discuss a playground altercation between their children. But their attempts at politeness soon collapse, and good behaviour becomes optional at just about every turn. It makes for exciting and deftly entertaining theatre.
With Jim Adamik, Lainie Hart, Arran McKenna and Jenna Roberts, the skill of the cast bringing this production to life is evident. Tightly directed by Jordan Best, and staged on a set that focused the drama – pointing it both at each character and outward to the audience – the result is vibrant, gripping and satisfyingly thought provoking.
