By Christina Killion Valdez
Post-Bulletin, Rochester MN
After the sudden death of her adoptive mother, a rich New York City dancer embarks on a search for her birth mother in the poignant comedy "Finding Claire," opening May 2 at The Rochester Repertory Theatre.
"It’s appropriately timed for Mother’s Day," said director Leisa Luis-Grill, noting that the contemporary play by Kim Merrill looks at biological ties and what it means to be a mother.
On her quest for a family connection, Rachel, played by Merry Johnson, winds up in a family crisis.
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Her fantasy about the loving family she might find in rural upstate New York is cut short by reality. Rachel’s biological mother Claire, played by Christine M. Boos, lives in an impoverished farmhouse. She is a stubborn, introverted woman who carves rough-rock sculptures as a way to express her frustrations.
Claire still lives with her domineering mother Lily, played by Dulcie Burkman. Her 15-year-old daughter Bridget, played by Katie Marker, is pregnant and isn’t sure what do with the baby.
"The characters are all painted compassionately," Luis-Grill said. "They are good people struggling with things that are overwhelming."
And although they do not have the tools to deal with the situations before them, everybody grows because of Rachel’s visit, she said.
The short play with no intermission also has its funny moments, Luis-Grill said, adding, "It’s a life comedy rather than a situational comedy."
For more information, go to Postbulletin.com/weblinks.
If you go
What: "Finding Claire"
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When: 8 p.m. May 2-3, 8-10, 15-17, 22-24.
Where: Rochester Repertory Theatre, 103 Seventh St. N.E.
Tickets: $17, $16 for students and seniors, $11 for students and seniors on Thursdays, available by calling 289-1737.
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Rochester Repertory Theatre
http://www.rochesterrep.org/
