In our search for answers, we can turn to logic or spirit for comfort; many maintain we cannot turn to both. Mark St. Germain’s supple script focuses on the battle between science and religion and details the clash between two of its most respected devotees.
A cancer-stricken Sigmund Freud (Martin Rayner) receives a young C.S. Lewis (Mark H. Dold) on the eve of Britain’s entrance into World War II. The titans battle it out over the existence of God, analyze each other’s flaws, and pay tribute to the frailty of the human condition.
The piece combines observant humor with a poignant look at death and the longing for something greater than ourselves. Rayner and Dold’s patter is sharp and multi-dimensional; both performers respect the playwright’s refusal to take the easy way out. Director Tyler Marchant explores all the script’s levels and keeps the neurons firing for a stimulating evening. (Lisa Buscani)
Mercury Theater, 3745 North Southport, (773)325-1700. Through June 3. September 23. (Half-Priced Tickets)
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