The highly anticipated fifth season of the play God of Carnage will open on December 3 at the Jayu Small Theater of the Seoul Arts Center, marking its return after a five-year hiatus. Produced by Shinswave, the play is directed by Kim Tae-hoon and features a completely revamped cast, offering a fresh take on this celebrated production.

God of Carnage, written by French playwright Yasmina Reza, is a sharp and witty black comedy that explores the unraveling of social decorum among two middle-class couples. What begins as a civil discussion about a fight between their children quickly devolves into a chaotic and absurd confrontation, revealing the petty and primal instincts behind their polished exteriors. The play, a satire of modern intellectualism, has garnered widespread acclaim, including three Tony Awards, one of which was for Best Play.

Since its South Korean premiere in 2010, God of Carnage has been recognized as a powerhouse production, winning three awards at the Korean Theater Awards. The play went on to have four successful runs in 2011, 2017, and 2019. This fifth season marks its return with an entirely new lineup of actors, each of whom brings a unique energy to the roles.

Kim Sang-kyung and Lee Hee-jun will take turns portraying Michel, the father of the child who was hit, and a man who, despite his claims of being a pacifist, harbors personality disorders. Kim, returning to the stage for the first time in 14 years, expressed his excitement about his theater comeback. "Theater has always felt like my first love," Kim said, "I've always had a longing to return to the stage, but busy schedules made it difficult. Now, with this opportunity, I'm thrilled to be back."

Opposite Michel is his wife Véronique, a principled woman who holds herself above others and believes in her moral superiority. Actors Shin Dong-mi and Jung Yeon will alternate in the role, each bringing their interpretation to this complex character. The dynamics between Michel and Véronique serve as the core of the play’s comedic tension, as the couple's polite facade crumbles into bitter squabbling.

Alain, the father of the child who initiated the fight, is a cynical, arrogant lawyer, played by Min Young-ki and Cho Young-kyu. Alain's wife Annette, a seemingly elegant but inscrutable character, will be portrayed by Lim Kang-hee. Together, these characters form a volatile combination, their arguments spiraling into an increasingly absurd battle of wills.

Director Kim Tae-hoon emphasized that, despite the play’s 14-year history in Korea, this season feels like an entirely new production. "The chemistry between these talented actors, with their diverse interpretations, will create a unique rhythm that brings a new layer of excitement to the story," Kim explained. "We’re preparing as though we’re meeting a brand new work."

The play’s return comes with heightened expectations as the fresh cast prepares to reinterpret the sharp satire that has enthralled audiences for over a decade. The themes of parental pride, societal hypocrisy, and the thin veneer of civility continue to resonate, making God of Carnage as relevant today as it was during its debut.

With its biting humor and unflinching look at human nature, God of Carnage promises to deliver a theatrical experience that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. Theatergoers can expect a performance filled with tension, laughter, and moments of uncomfortable truth as these talented actors bring the chaotic world of God of Carnage to life once again.

Sayart / ReaA JUNG, queen7203@gmail.com