A provocative tale of dying friendship

Three characters provide vivid foils for each other as they set off for a "relaxing" day bird hunting in the country. In the first scene of this 80-minute intermissionless play, we meet two buddies as they enter a rugged prairie (a wonderfully realistic set designed by Jack Magaw), stopping to impatiently await the arrival of a friend. B.J. Jones' skillful direction does credit to the neat, carefully crafted beginning where playwright Craig Wright not only sets up the initial relationship, with its abrasive moments, but also builds suspense as to the impact of the third pal.

Michael Shannon does a fine job portraying Kenny, a rather dim but goodhearted dog-owner who values the superficial. He prefers the escapism of movies to problems of reality and would like his days to unfold as easily and unencumbered as film, with little if any introspection. Happy and carefree, he yells for his lost dog, Lady, attempting to attract her by offering her favorite treats: Pop Tarts. His only wish is to enjoy the day, unencumbered by any political arguments.

Of course, he will not get his wish.

In contrast to Kenny, Paul Sparks plays angry, embittered Dyson, a man as tormented as Kenny is casual. His numerous regrets include a loveless marriage, his original backing as campaign manager for Congressman Graham, a political candidate who has come to signify everything Dyson opposes and -- most agonizing of all -- his only son's desire to enlist in the Marines.

They await the arrival of their long time pal, Graham, played by Lance Baker as a politician who is calm, cool, and that rare creature, a Democrat strongly supporting the U.S. government's current approach to Iraq. Graham's recent glib, highly patriotic, political speech was the impetus for Dyson's only son to enlist. He provides the core of the drama as the others warily (and not so warily) encircle him. In a most telling revelation we learn that in their youth they were once lost while on vacation. Then, they were lost together; now each is lost alone.

There is nothing stereotypical or cliched in the brisk, often painful dialogue among these three. The play is provocative without being a polemic for any political view. The characters are vivid and sympathetically drawn, and Lady, although never seen, is integral to the story. The reason for her fate becomes a both a mystery and a microcosm for taking responsibility. (To write more about this, although tempting, would be a spoiler.) .

Wright is nothing if not creative. Last year, Northlight mounted his clever, innovative play "Grace," where neighbors share the same space, invisible to each other as scenes shift between them. With "Lady," he has once again provided a challenging drama. This inspired playwright, who started out as a minister (and is certainly examining complex moral dilemmas), is well worth watching. Not to be missed.