TEHRAN-Yasmina Reza’s “God of Carnage” directed by Anita Shafaroudi is on stage at Molavi Theater Hall in Tehran.

Translated by Alireza Koushk Jalali, the play, which started its performances on November 10, will remain on stage through December 1.

First published in 2008, it is about two sets of parents; the son of one couple has hurt the son of the other couple at a public park. The parents meet to discuss the matter in a civilized manner. However, as the evening goes on, the parents become increasingly childish and the meeting devolves into chaos.

Conflict and human nature when presented with it, are the predominant themes of Reza's play. Well-written and a display of fascinating character development, it gives the audience an opportunity to witness the verbal battles of two families and their complex personalities.

Winner of the 2009 Tony Award for Best Play, “God of Carnage” suggests that our civilized trappings do a poor job of hiding our venality and bile.

Director Shafarodi also acts in the play along with Afshin Hosseini, Alireza Khorasani, and Maryam Abedi.

The play has been staged several times in Iran by various directors in the past years.

Originally written in French, the play was a success. It was then translated into English and has enjoyed equal acclaim in productions in both London and New York.

Renowned filmmaker Roman Polanski directed the 2011 film adaption of the play, whose title was shortened to “Carnage”, starring Jodie Foster and John C. Reilly, Christoph Waltz, and Kate Winslet.

Yasmina Reza, 64, is a French playwright, actress, novelist and screenwriter best known for her plays “Art” and “God of Carnage”. Many of her brief satiric plays have reflected on contemporary middle-class issues. She has so far written more than 20 plays, novels, and screenplays.

SS/SAB