UK Theatre Network

Rain Man

Adapted for the stage by Dan Gordon.

Based on the MGM motion picture story by Barry Morrow.

Directed by Robin Herford

 Reviewed by Sue Marks at Milton Keynes Theatre on Monday 14^th September 2009.

A flier for this play quoted the Sunday Telegraph as saying “guaranteed tears as well as laughter”. I did not find this was the case, true there were some poignant moments but I found this the most “feel good” play I have seen in a long time. The play opens with a brash Charlie Babbitt wheeling and dealing in his office and barely breaking stride when told of his father’s death. He then attends the funeral of his estranged father and is shocked and angry to learn that the multi millionaire has left his fortune to someone else. There is another shock in store when he discovers the beneficiary is his elder brother, Raymond, an autistic savant who has lived in an institution for many years. Charlie was unaware he had a brother but in an attempt to recover his lost inheritance checks his brother out of the home he has lived in for the past twenty six years. The play illustrates the interaction between the brothers which forges a bond between them. Eventually Charlie, who was initially motivated by financial gain, finds a relationship with his brother more rewarding.

Charlie Babbitt is played by Oliver Chris who is excellent in the role, allowing his character to gradually change during the course of the play. Initially he is brash but with a reasonable smattering of charisma. However, one’s opinion of him deteriorates as he goes through the episode of pulling his brother out of his home for financial reasons, reaching a low at about the same point that his girlfriend leaves because he’s a user. Having assassinated his character in the first half of the play it is rebuilt in the second half when his more human side is displayed starting with the events from his childhood. Revelations about his past explain some of his apparent lack of feeling. Oliver was also very amusing and interacted well with the other characters.

Raymond Babbitt is played by Neil Morrissey and I found his performance stunning. His portrayal of an autistic savant was not only realistic but displayed a sensitivity which added something to the role. He illustrated the reliance autistic people have upon their rituals and routines to cope with even minor changes in the world around them.  Although Neil is one of our best known actors he was still able to be believable in this part, immersing himself entirely in the character. The gestures with his arms were particularly convincing and effectively maintained throughout the performance.

The scenery was minimalist but effective.  It seemed appropriate not to distract the audience from the powerful interaction between the actors. However, whilst not intrusive it held greater complexity than would appear at first sight and effects ranged from photographic backdrops through offices, palatial portals, airport lounges to Vegas hotels.

I thought this was a particularly enjoyable play and judging by the applause at the end the rest of the audience agreed.

Rain Man plays Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 19^th September 2009. Milton Keynes Theatre Box Office 0844 871 7652 (bkg fee). The tour then continues playing His Majesty’s Theatre Aberdeen from Tuesday 22^nd to Saturday 26^th September 2009.

www.miltonkeynestheatre.com www.rainmanonstage.com

Reviewed by Sue Marks at Milton Keynes Theatre on Monday 14^th September 2009 on behalf of Catherine Brian.