It's easy to get the idea initially that "God of Carnage" isn't a comedy. One couple visits another in their home. They're there to settle a dispute over a fight between their sons that's occurred on a nearby playground. Not surprisingly, there is a veneer of politeness on all concerned – these are, after all, relatively successful people, an attorney, a wealth manager, a business owner and an author who also works at a book store. And this, after all, is serious business.
Running throutgh February 21 at Stray Dog Theatre, Yasmin Reza's play, translated wonderfully by Christopher Hampton, is a wonder to hear, and to watch as well. While the women, Sarajane Alverson as the hostess and Michelle Hand, begin much of the back-and-forthing, the men soon become part of the increasingly strong flow of dialogue. Stephen Peirick, the visiting dad, is a cellphone-wielding attorney, although not much concerned about the case involving his son, and Michael Juncal, the host, whose weapons include clafouti and rum.
Pay particular attention to facial expression and body language in those who are not speaking – it's almost as much fun to watch as the dialogue can be. Hands slide up in a silent effort to stop a line of thought. A head shakes from side to side as its mouth is asking someone for agreement. And the faces – the faces are saying almost as much as the words. It's a strong cast, led by Alverson, opinionated Mamma Bear defending her wounded cub, but everyone does yeoman work. Michelle Hand's attempts at politeness and consensus-making mask her ursine instincts a little better, but only temporarily. Juncal is, for most of the play, easygoing and willing to go along, but it's clear that he's holding himself back. And Stephen Peirick, loud enough on his phone that he could be heard in New Jersey, is itching – whether it's to get out of there or for a fight, or both.
The timing, courtesy of director Gary F. Bell, is swell, and even the set fits the action like an expensive suit. Good stuff.
God of Carnage
through February 21
Stray Dog Theatre
Tower Grove Abbey
2336 Tennessee Ave.