Speaking Ring's new production of playwright Jim Leonard, Jr.'s depression era drama, The Diviner's which closes out the talented ensembles' 7th season has the ability to transport the audience to a much simpler place and time, where spirituality is central to how people conduct their lives. The story, which centers on the relationship of a disillusioned preacher and a mentally challenged boy, each trying to find redemption in very different ways, borrows many of its themes from the 1960's British novel and film "Whistle Down The Wind", however, not nearly as well crafted.

The plot unfolds in rural draught ridden 1930's Indiana, as a young boy, Buddy Layman, survives a near drowning incident that takes the life of his mother. The accident has left Buddy with a great fear of water, yet an uncanny ability to predict rain storms and know exactly where underground springs lie (ie: the art of divining). As even the simple task of bathing congers up recollections of his near demise, Buddy is one with the mud, and under the tender yet firm care of his father Ferris and sister, Jennie Mae. Enter C.C .Showers, (yes, more references to water) who has relocated from Kentucky hanging up his bible in search of a simpler life of manual labor. As the town, who is in need of a spiritual leader, gets wind that a preacher has settled amongst them, the townsfolk believe Showers is the key for themselves' and the town's salvation.

The script has no pretentions or disguises and keeps your attention throughout the two hours, though it more than often settles for mediocrity in its story telling. However, the reason to see this rarely done play is the stellar cast put together by director Emily Korff. The ensemble cast totally transports you to another simpler time. With pitch perfect accents, each actor embodies their individual character with enormous pathos. Joe Adamczak as the preacher and Dave Urlakis as Buddy have some great moments together, especially towards the end when each sees salvation in the other. Laurence Bryan has a very controlled performance as a passionate yet broken father to Buddy and Jennie Mae (Erin Orr). Mary Mikva as the jelly bean wheeling Norma is the quite effecting as the town's spiritual matriarch who wants nothing more than to believe in the power of the preacher.

The production also benefits from some inventive lighting designs by Steven Besic, most notably in the final water scene as well as some very well infused original folk and bluegrass compositions by Steve Baldwin. I am looking forward to what the 8th season brings us from the inventive and talented company.

The Diviners plays through April 5, 2008 at the National Pastime Theatre, 4139 N. Broadway, Chicago. For show times and ticket information please visit www.speakingringtheatre.org or call the box office (312) 458-9374.

Pictured: Dave Urlakis & Joe Adamczak Photo Credit: Michael Brownlee