Seattle’s Book-it Repertory Theatre has adapted for the stage Garth Stein’s book “The Art of Racing in the Rain”. This book is close to the hearts of racers and dog lovers for its truthful description of what the life of the average racing driver is like narrated eloquently and knowledgeably by a dog named Enzo. This production has successfully captured the intensity and emotion of the book and added a colorful and humorous personification of Enzo in the form of David S. Hogan. Mr. Hogan is a man who is clearly part dog for his ability to capture the movement, attitude and elegance of a dog with touching eloquence and humor.
One would normally think staging a play with a canine narrator would prove problematic. This has proven to not be the case, as this adaptation by Myra Platt has split narration duties among the members of the cast. Enzo the dog remains the primary storyteller describing the tale of his human, Denny Swift’s journey through marriage and fatherhood and the heartbreaking crises of life amid a backdrop of the ups and downs of a racing career. This play had the audience laughing, crying and cheering for Enzo and Denny. A great book has been made into a great play.
The Art of Racing in the Rain runs through May 13 at Book-It Repertory Theatre located at Seattle Center. For more information and to purchase tickets visit the Book-It website.
