When the Rain Stops Falling
When the Rain Stops Falling has been one of the more popular play choices of recent years, and this production by Theatre Arts at Curtin and the Hayman Theatre is a strong incarnation of this well-written, but complex text. A play that spans four generations and includes older characters is a challenge for a cast in their late teens and twenties, but this young cast do a marvellous job.
Stephen Carr’s set, the best that I have seen for this play, evokes both rain and stars - re-occurring themes in this play, and allows for multiple settings - sometimes simultaneously. Evocative lighting is designed by Katharina Brieden - often paired with striking audio-visual design from Jonathan Hoey. Costumes that subtly suggest era are designed by Simonne Matthews.
Tom Tasovac bookends the play, setting a high standard, with some strong monologues as Gabriel York, and is joined in the final scene by Jesse Vakatini as his estranged son Andrew.
Performances throughout the show are strong. Ill-fated Gabriel Law is played with quiet charm by Toby Shepard. His mother, Elizabeth, dealing with a terrible realisation, and later a secret, is played at different stages in her life, in beautifully co-ordinated performances and lovely depth by Charlotte Holly-Little (Younger) and Rebecca Haywood (Older). The difficult role of Gabriel’s father, Henry, is given an intelligent portrayal by Adrian Levis.
Gabrielle York is played with lovely nuance, at different life stages, by Danika Bentley and Katelyn Rudolphy - both handling emotional requirements well. Declan Cooper is very likeable in a thoughtful portrayal of Joe Ryan.
A modern Australian play that should be seen by any serious drama student, this production of When the Rain Stops Falling is a strong retelling that demonstrates great affinity with the text, with strong performances. It is also a really great watch, for people wishing to see an interesting story. This has a short season, so be quick.
Kimberley Shaw
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