How the World Began

Creationism versus evolution is a topic that engenders fierce partisanship. Long after the Scopes Trial in the 1920s seemingly resolved the matter in this country and even since scientists have continued to find evidence of a pattern of evolution, people with strong religious views challenge any settlement of the argument. Playwright Catherine Trieschmann's script takes on the topic skillfully and with food for thought.

Susan Pierce (Sarah Rafferty) has arrived in Plainview, Kan., from New York to begin a teaching job shortly after a tornado has caused several deaths. One day, after class, Micah Staab (Jarrett Sleeper) confronts her in her classroom with a request for her to apologize for an offhand remark she made about evolution versus the "gobbledygook" other people believe. Because she seems unapologetic about her scientific views, her response is unsatisfactory to Micah. Further clouding the issue is Micah's guardian, Gene Dinkel (Time Winters), whose folksy, good-old-boy demeanor hides a manipulative side, and who insinuates himself into the situation.

The ensemble is outstanding, projecting strong characterizations. Rafferty and Sleeper handle the sensitive subject as believably and sympathetically as they can, especially as the cards are stacked against the teacher. Sleeper in particular exudes anxiety that is palpable as he startles when the winds blow and tries to make his case for the teacher's retraction. Winters is deliciously sinister even as he tries to sound open-minded, acting as a catalyst for the eventual resolution.

Daniella Topol delivers just the right directorial touch as she abnegates the melodrama for a subdued reality. Scenic designer Sara Ryung Clement eschews Trieschmann's script notes that describe a shabby classroom, instead making it bright and colorful, which adds to the sense that no trouble could exist in such a happy environment.

Sympathy mingles with tragedy and anger as the play unfolds. Even as society grapples with conflicting political and social beliefs, this story rings true and makes no grand promise that we will all just get along.

Presented by and at South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. Oct. 1-16. Tue.-Fri., 7:45 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 2 & 7:45 p.m. (714) 708-5555. www.scr.org.