REVIEW: Three Days of Rain

Untethered Theatre Company has hung their hat on outrageously dark comedy, moving edgy drama, and plays that most others shy away from.  But THREE DAYS OF RAIN is tamer, sweeter story than their usuals but that doesn’t make it any less interesting.

Newcomer Adam Jones plays “Walker,” a spoiled, trust fund brat who suffers from boredom and maybe mental illness – like his mother.  His sister, “Nan,” (played by MaryKate Moran) worries about him and was convinced he was dead.  They are joined by “Pip,” (Carter Bratton) a childhood friend and now a moderately successful TV star as they prepare to settle their father’s estate.

But there are secrets and regrets and some really deliciously funny dialogue.  Bratton is very comfortable on stage, especially in this tiny basement space.  He’s become a genuine pro.  Moran, too.  They both get how to operate within the intimacy of the tiniest theatre in town.

Jones, though, is new to the company and I wonder how good he’ll be with a little more time to adjust to this stage.  I was in the front row, which to be fair is about 6 inches from the actors, but it felt as if he was playing much bigger than the other two – at least in the first act.  I like him, his energy is very good, and he was delightful after the show when I met him.  He’ll settle into the very unique style of performance that happens in the Clifton Performance Theatre after awhile.

Act Two feature the same actors, but this time playing characters they reference in Act One and many years before.  It’s a cute idea but I’d have shaved off about twenty minutes from the whole thing.  Also, I prefer it when characters show me, not tell me, their stories. I loathe direct address unless its done very well or serves a particular purpose. I felt the playwright, Richard Greenberg adds tons of exposition through breaking of the fourth wall.  It feels lazy and I feel for the actors . .. its not easy to do. They push through, however, especially Bratton who’s breezy style resonates with his character quite well.

Despite some of my criticisms, this is a delightful little play.  Director Leah Strasser uses some inventive effects (with the assistance of Buz Davis), especially in Act Two, and I’m a huge fan of the cast.  Bratton spends the least amount of time on stage among the three; I missed him when he wasn’t there.

I think you should check out this interesting production in one of my favorite theatres in town – and decide for yourself.  I know others adore the play, the style, and the story much more than I do.  I willl continue to be a fan of this company, though, and appreciate their willingness to push the envelope and try new things.  They truly are untethered.

Tickets and more information about THREE DAYS OF RAIN, which runs through May 23rd, can be found here.  Go see it!