When the Rain Stops Falling

An exceptional theatre piece written by Andrew Bovell. When the Rain Stops Falling is an intense examination of family problems and how they can echo through the generations. As a theatre minimalist - one who abhors intermission, scene changes & overt musical interludes - I was very satisfied. The scene changes were most warranted.

Intermission is an insulting concept. I am constantly stupefied by productions that insist on it's presence. I can safely say that I am yet to see a production with an intermission that I believe was warranted. It is a burdensome affair. All too often, the piece will be split in two. The first half will be given an unnecessary dramatic surge towards it's end. Then the 2nd half will commence from essentially a standstill. Yawn. Looking around at the audience, I can only believe it has to do with assumed lack of bladder control.

Overt musical interludes. Particularly a loud crash bang to signify a change of scene. As I hold my ears each time the scene is darkened ( the visual cue for the end of a scene ), I look around at the audience again. As the majority are over 60, I can only believe a similarity to the above. The director has catered for the near-deaf who would perhaps otherwise be unaware that the scene has changed. In WTRSF, the music is higly reminiscent of the Peanuts theme. Slighly slowed, and seemingly out of place. However, it had a hypnotic effect. I believe that both these elements were the desired effect. A single violin note (extended) was the simple, acceptable cue for the change of scene.

I have expressed my general theatre beefs. When the Rain Stops Falling treats it's audience with respect. Vital story information is weaved throughout the play. Clues to the storyline can be felt emotively. This is crucial, as there is nothing I detest more than being treated to a spoon-feeding frenzy (An all too often occurence).

The last three plays I have seen at the MTC - Rockabye, God of Carnage & When the Rain Stops Falling have been high-class affairs. Each time, I have walked away challenged. I have walked away believing I have not stumbled upon a mere distraction. Something much greater than the menial whiling away of one's evening. This is truly a first. Despite the obvious reputation of theatre, I have been aghast at the woeful ineptitude displayed toward the audience. I must say again - targeted to an older audience who have difficulty with vision, hearing & comprehension. MTC may have finally broken the geriatric shackles. Sterling job.

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The environmental message being sent is overstated, particularly in the program. The message will have greater power if it is arrived at by the viewer indirectly.