THE RAINMAKER

L.A. Theatre Works boasts an impressive library of plays on audiocassette and CD, recorded in a unique way. The plays are performed in front of a live audience, so they also capture applause and laughter. But they are staged specifically to be recorded for audio, so there are no sets or props; just actors performing their lines. This strategy offers the best of both worlds for audio: a perfectly clear, state-of-the-art recording combined with the energy of live performance. This particular production lends itself superbly to audio. The listener can easily envision the dusty, drought-plagued ranch and the disheartened characters whose lives are changed by the arrival of a smooth-talking con man spinning colorful dreams. The actors offer outstanding performances, particularly David Aaron Baker as giggly, enthusiastic teenaged Jim; Jayne Atkinson as Lizzie, who knows she's plain and serious but can't help wishing for romance; Jerry Hardin as the kind, grizzled patriarch of the family; and James Morrison as Starbuck, the friendly pretender whose tall tales, while untruthful, offer their own brand of hope and comfort. For those who can't get to the theater as often as they'd like, this production is an excellent option. Based on the Samuel French paperback. (Dec. 10)