“Why are men violent and cruel?” is a hot topic being discussed at The National Press Club, morning news shows and on social media. We often skirt around those adjectives, reflecting instead on algorithms, domestic violence and penalties for athletes caught flouting workplace policy (and maybe the law too).

In Savages, playwright Patricia Cornelius explores the role friendship plays in influencing men’s thoughts, feelings and most importantly actions. She doesn’t shy away from the violence and cruelty it often causes. How better to explore male friendship than through a boys trip on a cruise. 

Savages: Zoe Boesen, AYA, Nicci Wilks and Laila Thaker. Photo © Pia Johnson

Cornelius’ writing is beautiful. It’s almost spoken verse, the four characters delivering rhymes more often than prose. The former provides moments for the ensemble to speak as a chorus which is a rare treat. Director Kitan Petkovski controls the language with ease, ensuring natural and fast paced delivery that matches the pace of the script’s shifting styles. He pairs this with quick and seamless scene changes. 

The ensemble,...