Monday, February 18, 2013

God of Carnage Review

God of Carnage
Nuffield Theatre, Southampton

One has to wonder whether we all carry a bit of carnage within ourselves, after seeing this play. In this production, Yasmina Reza’s award winning play, God of Carnage, a strong cast helps to bring alive issues of child-rearing and marriage whilst leaving the audience in stitches.

The production starts off with two sets of parents trying to resolve a serious incident between their children. What ensues however are continuously heated arguments about who is in the right, whilst bringing out some ugly sides to the parents. With some witty dialogue it is hilarious to watch these people stoop to the level of monsters

Within a simple set of a stylish lounge, with a tint of red to it, the play relies on the performances which are what the production excels at. However within a 1 hour and 20 minute one act play so much is revealed that I can only give my general thoughts on the characters without spoiling  the twists of the complex narrative.

Matthew Kelly’s Michel Vallon is jolly and keeps agreeing with everything the others say. James Clyde, as hotshot lawyer Alain Reille, with mobile at the ready, is to the point and confrontational. Yet it is clear that both lack the concern for their sons that the women display.

Tracey Childs’ Veronique Vallon was the upstanding, overbearing wife who is ever willing to preach on child-rearing methods and the third World. Miranda Foster is a fragile but intelligent and graceful Annette Reille. It becomes clear that her problems stem from the attitude of her work obsessed husband. 

These strong performances allow the wit and swirling issues of the play to be cleverly brought to the fore.  Although it is perhaps 10 minutes too long, this delightful one act play combines laughter with the serious issues of child-rearing and marital discord. Go and see this at a low Top Price

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