God of Carnage @ The Maidment (ATC)

The men rule the roost in this domestic comedy/social horror which runs for one more week at Auckland's Maidment Theatre. Both Peter Elliot demonstrates superb comic timing and, though I'm never one to celebrate the replacement of Craig Parker, Dave Fane is also superb. Behind every great man there is said to be a great woman and this is also true when it comes to the performances of Miranda Harcourt and Hera Dunleavy.

This is the show for anyone who's ever wanted to break the ranks of etiquette and hurl abuse (or indeed any nearby nick-knack) at another. God of Carnage begins with the two couples meeting to discuss a fight their two boys have recently had and they agree...for the most part. Spiraling out of control the play delivers line after line that will make you gasp and laugh both at the same time.

The writing is what gives it it's strength and the show is beautiful to watch; a dance where sides agree, take a few twirls, and then fracture forcing a change of partners. From united married couples, to masochist-feminist face-offs, to cheeky threesomes with a long individual fighting the good fight - allegiances, opinions and seating arrangements are forever changing.

I would recommend the play to anyone after a fun night out at the theatre. A little to think about, but a whole lot to enjoy!

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4 Stars