REVIEW: Any day is a good day to see Tuesdays With Morrie in Drayton

Two men who have little in common develop a bond that sustains them in life and finally in death.

Tuesdays with Morrie presents that unfolding bond with  a minimalist set and no other visible characters, and leaves not a dry eye in the house.

Adapted from the bestselling autobiographical book of the same name, the Drayton Entertainment production provides a study in the power of words and love.

Morrie is an old university professor nicknamed Coach by his student Mitch.

Morrie recognized a lost soul in Mitch and took an interest in him. His mentoring enables the young man to like himself better and grow as a person.

When their paths cross again 16 years later, the now-workaholic Mitch finds the time each Tuesday to fly in and visit the now faltering “Coach.”

 Starting out as a light hearted look at the emotional issues of mortality, it ends up being more about life and how to live it fully with no regrets.

Morrie believes overall that “love is the only rational act.”

Seasoned actor Ian Downie,  as Jewish professor Morrie Schwartz, employs the schtick he used as one of the stubborn old men who mock modern banking in TD Canada Trust’s TV commercials.

He manages to emote a strong, positive personality even as his character is slowly perishing from Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Downie delivers on pathos while sustaining a likeable, matter-of-fact manner as he philosophizes on love, life, death and forgiveness. He also gets the utmost from each line of comic relief.   

Jeffrey Wetsch plays Mitch Albom, the author of the book and busy journalist who values and honours his mentor the last 14 Tuesdays of his life.

Much of Wetsch’s initial appearance on stage is dialogue and set-up and it takes a while for the audience to warm up to him and perceive the connection he has with Morrie.

His emotional detachment gives way to a touching, affectionate relationship as his character develops.

Wetsch trained at the National Theatre School of Canada and has appeared  in The Heiress at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse, as well as many other roles on stage, film and TV.

The only onstage embellishments are the essential props that support Morrie in his downward health spiral.

Tuesdays With Morrie is directed by Marti Maraden, who worked with the Stratford Shakespeare Festival for nearly 30 years in varying capacities,  from actor to director, among many other credits.

A reflective, sniffling audience exited the theatre after a fortifying standing ovation.

On stage only until June 22, tickets may be purchased online at www.draytonfestivaltheatre.com, in person at the Drayton Festival Theatre box office or by calling 519-638-5555 or toll free 1-855-372-9866).

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