A Spanish play about religious dogmatism called Me Cago en Dios (I Sh*t on God) had to be suspended on Saturday when two men attacked the actors on stage, shouting "Long live Christ the king!"
Bellas Artes, one of Madrid's main theatres, said the play's leading actor, Fernando Incera, and dramatist Inigo Ramirez de Haro were attacked by two people who also tried to set fire to the playhouse.
Some of the audience became embroiled in the punch-up as they tried to defend the author and cast from the blows. The two attackers were later arrested.
The play's title, a common blasphemy in Spain, had caused controversy as soon as the play opened.
It was due to end its run yesterday.