'Lieutenant' takes command at City Stage | Theatre

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - City Stage has opened a dark comedy that pokes fun at violence.

It's called The Lieutenant of Inishmore, and it's written by Martin McDonagh who also wrote the Oscar-nominated film In Bruges.

The play follows a very twisted, angry member of the Irish National Liberation Army who finds out his cat has been killed, which sends him over the edge.

"There are eight characters," said director Nick Basta. "They're all zany. They've all got something to say. They're all noble in their own craziness."

The show won a Tony for Best Play in 2006, and despite its violent tendencies, those involved say it's extremely funny.

"There's a lot of swearing, a lot of violence, but it's all satirical," said Basta. "If you don't laugh at this show, you're really not alive. You just can't help but find it humorous, that he's this violent, this enraged, this dedicated to his craft. I fell in love with it and I've been laughing ever since."

The Lieutenant of Inishmore

• Feb. 15-17, 22-24
• 8:00 p.m.
• City Stage at Level 5

For tickets, call (910) 264-2602 or click here.

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