The Rainmaker

I commend Colin Thomas’ excellent review of “The Rainmaker”:

http://www.straight.com/arts/752546/rainmaker-beautiful-and-moving

I have only a couple of thoughts to add.

The first is to reiterate the praise for Andrew Wheeler in his portrayal of H.C., the family patriarch.  Wheeler is a bright star in the Vancouver theatre scene who can always be relied on to give a first-class performance (as was the case here).

The second to toss a bouquet to whoever had the imagination and good taste to select the musical works of Aaron Copland (Billy the Kid and Rodeo) to frame and underscore the action.

After the show I was left thinking about the character of Noah.  He is portrayed as a negative influence in the family – dwelling on what he sees as Lizzie’s plain looks and her future as an old maid and urging her to be realistic about her prospects.  He is equally adamant about attempting to discourage his brother from forming a relationship with a girl he has met.

While the script does not give us very much, Noah himself seems to be devoid of and prospects of marriage or forming a meaningful relationship.  Whether intended by the author or not, Noah seems to be projecting his unhappiness with his own unfulfilled life on to his siblings.  It would have been interesting to have seen this a bit ore fully developed.

If you read this before the run is over, I recommend it.