MOTHERKIND

As Kate prepares for marriage and the birth of her first child, she also prepares for the death of her mother from lung cancer. Woven throughout the narrative are memories of childhood and the early stages of Kathryn's illness, and all the emotional passages contained therein. Jen Taylor presents a gentle interpretation of this introspective work, bringing compassionate insight to her portrayals of Kate and Kathryn. At times, her characterizations blur somewhat between the two, but this only serves to reinforce the women's connectedness throughout their lives. Taylor is less successful with her male characterizations, sounding stylized and overly formal. It doesn't detract much, however, and the performance draws the listener into the complexities of body and soul. R.P.L. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/JUL 01]