STC examines pitfalls of parenting in 'God of Carnage'

How far would you go to defend your child? If your 11-year-old had a playground altercation that involved a stick and two broken teeth, would you arrange a civilized meeting with the other parents? Not many would.

The Sudbury Theatre Centre’s production of Yasmina Reza’s "God of Carnage" presents just this situation — a parent meeting.

The play won a best comedy award in Britain. Some audience will laugh throughout; others might find they are appalled that the adults can be much less civilized than their children.

The Novaks — Veronica and Michael — have invited the Raleighs — Allan and Annette — to discuss Benjamin Raleigh’s playground assault on their son, Henry. The wine runs freely as the couples exchange pleasantries and small talk.

But in no time, civility begins to unravel and the roller coaster evening of theatre is in full throttle. It soon becomes every character for himself as the blood sport is unleashed.

Directed by guest-director Rod Ceballos, who has performed and directed extensively on both sides of the border, and stage managed by Eamonn Reil, "God of Carnage" welcomes a cast of four, all of whom are making their STC stage debut.

Stephen Guy-McGrath and Ramona Milano play Michael and Veronica Novak. Ramona Milano’s 25-year theatre career includes film, stage and recording studios.

McGrath’s is primarily Toronto-based, including extensive work with Soulpepper Theatre. Katherine McLeod and Andy Trithardt play Annette and Alan Raleigh, whose son Benjamin appears to be the culprit.

McLeod has performed frequently in the U.S.; Trithardt has performed across Canada and is a recording artist, as well.

It is unusual to have a set designer and lighting designer wrapped into one, but that is exactly what Glenn Davidson is.

The costume designer is STC’s own Sara Pasmore. She has done all costume designs this season at the Sudbury Theatre Centre.

Playwright Reza became a theatre name with such works as Tony Award-winning "Art," produced over a decade ago at the Sudbury Theatre Centre.

"God of Carnage," winner of an Olivier Award for Best Comedy and a Tony Award for Best Play in 2009 plays from March 27 to April 6, Tuesdays through Sundays.

Curtain time Tuesdays is 7:30 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The Pay What You Can Sunday is March 30 at 2 p.m. Tickets range in price from $20.76 to $36.76.