GOD of Carnage, a ruthlessly comic study of middle class parenting, boasts a stellar cast with Elizabeth McGovern, famous for her role as Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham, in Downton Abbey and Amanda Abbington, of Sherlock and Mr Selfridge.

The new production of the play by Yasmina Reza at the Theatre Royal Bath also features Ralf Little (The Royle Family) and Nigel Lindsay (of Victoria and Four Lions) and runs from Wednesday August 29 to Saturday September 15.

Winner of the Tony Award for best play and the Olivier Award for best new comedy, this hilarious farce by the author of Art, is one of the most successful plays ever in the history of the West End.

When eleven-year-old Ferdinand hits eleven-year-old Bruno with a stick in a playground punch-up and knocks out two of his teeth, the combatants’ enlightened parents decide to meet to talk things over civilly. But once the niceties are done with and the drink starts flowing, it is the parents who turn into spoiled brats.

Originally written in French, God of Carnage was translated by Christopher Hampton in 2008. Receiving its UK premiere at the Gielgud Theatre, the production went on to win major awards in both London and New York, and to entertain audiences worldwide.

In 2011, a film version called Carnage was released starring Jodie Foster, John C Reilly, Christoph Waltz and Kate Winslet. Ten years after its UK stage premiere, Lindsay Posner directs this new anniversary production opening in Bath.

Tickets are £15 - £38.50 with concessions available. To book, call 01225 448844 or visit theatreroyal.org.uk. A booking fee applies.