Bill Cain’s finely tuned How to Write a New Book for the Bible makes a strong statement about the power of family. The play probes some of the families mentioned in the Bible, during his own autobiographical quest to see his mother through the last six months of her life. When the play opens on Rick Graham’s minimalist set, Bill Cain (the character, not the playwright) is realizing that his mother – who lives in another state – is no longer going to be able to care for herself. In this regard, the play touches a great number of families who must deal with the heartbreak and tenacity of dealing with a failing parent. But since Bill (the character and the playwright) is a Jesuit priest, he likens his experience to what he feels is the greatest family story of all: The “original family of Joseph, Mary, Jesus and God.” In New Book for the Bible, the four family member are: Peter (Norman Moses); his ailing wife, Mary (Carrie Hitchcock); Jack Dwyer (Bill), the younger brother; and Paul (Jonathan Wainwright). The play’s focus is Mary and her failing health, and the relationship between herself and her younger son. She strives to live her life as independently as she can, causing her frustrated son to comment: “It’s no coincidence that the Commandment “Honor Thy Mother and Father” is followed by “Thou Shalt Not Kill.” Such wry humor is scattered throughout this realistic and poignant story. There are profound moments as well, such as the time the two brothers visit the Vietnam Wall. Paul, a veteran, is struck by the Wall’s effect on him (causing more than a few sniffles in the audience). One can imagine that the playwright is making a point about the loss of life not being limited strictly to the elderly. Under David Cecsarini’s direction, all the actors rise to the challenge their roles demand. Milwaukee favorites Norman Moses and Carrie Hitchcock make their husband/wife relationship seem completely identifiable to many members in the audience. The enduring bond between Mary and Bill is completely realized as well, thanks to Next Act newcomer Jack Dwyer. As Paul, Jonathan Wainwright offers a keen perception into the heart of this guarded character. Both Moses and Wainwright do double duty in assuming several minor roles. The action is highlighted in pools of soft light that gives the production a touch of intimacy. The Cains are a recognizably ordinary family; they may have squabbles, but one of their traditions is that no one is allowed to leave the room until the quarrel has played itself out. Bill Cain (the playwright) illustrates how life is lived in small moments, which give meaning to life and move us forward to the next chapter of our lives. Next Act has done an excellent job of making these small moments count.
Most of the play is spent in the family home, along with frequent visitors to doctor’s offices. Over time, Mary recounts scenes from her past. Many of these are with Pete. Some are loving, and some represent the differences that can cause disharmony in any relationship. Before dying, Mary summons Paul to her side, bringing the somewhat distant son back into the fold. They had a great day, Paul tells his brother, who has returned to his home in New York for a few days. That “great day” turned out to be her final one.
