Theatre South Carolina's current production, The Pillowman, by Martin McDonagh, is a strangely disturbing play but an enormously satisfying evening of theatre.

Directed by Jim O'Connor, the show features excellent performances in what is billed as a "drama comedy." On stage at Drayton Hall, there are some very funny lines in tragic situations. The feeling of not knowing whether to laugh or cry is an integral part of the play.

The show opens in a Kafkaesque setting of a writer in a police station in a totalitarian state. The writer, Katurian, wonderfully played by Michael Downey, creates unhappy and twisted fairy tales and is accused of murder when some of the stories come true. His retarded brother, Michal, played by Nathan Bennett, is also arrested.

Ben Blazer and Brian Rooney play good cop/bad cop with marvelously layered performances and nuances, making transitions seamless and delightful. These actors are fun to watch and make the show come alive. This is an opportunity to see some outstanding theatre, and the ensemble cast turns an interesting, albeit offbeat, play into a remarkable event that theatre lovers shouldn't miss.

The first act was a bit long; the second act was fast-paced and involving, and the whole was better than the sum of its parts. Nothing is as it seems, and it is all quite intriguing. All the elements come together exceptionally well.

Nic Ularu, listed as "scenographer," has worked his usual magic with the deceptively simple set, and guest lighting designer Michael Philippi adds much to the mood and overall atmosphere.

While this dark show may not appeal to everyone, it is a nevertheless a shining light in Columbia theatre. It is interestingly staged and altogether well done. Kudos to Theatre South Carolina on this one.

The Pillowman is playing at Drayton through March 4; call 7-2551 for reservations.

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