“Rain” is one of those rare shows that is even more enjoyable on a second viewing.
It helped that I had seats right down front at Broward Center, where “Rain” continues
through Oct. 16.

There is a reason “Rain” has been performing live nearly more than twice the length
of the Beatles’ performance run, and that reason is attention to detail. There are plenty;
perhaps too many Beatles, tribute bands around, but many of them are slipshod, second-
rate imitations. The guys in “Rain’ have really studied their subjects and their music.

The ringleader in this group is Joey Curatolo, who plays the role of Paul McCartney.
Apart from the fact Curatolo plays right-handed, he is a dead ringer for the affable “cute
Beatle.” Curatolo has been playing this role since the original Broadway debut in 1998,
and he shows no signs of disenchantment. In fact all four of the “Beatles” are members of
the original Broadway cast.

Steve Landes does not look so much like John Lennon, but his voice is a dead ringer for
the most acerbic, quotable Beatle.

Joe Bithorn is a bit huskier than the late George Harrison, but he resembles the lead
guitarist and his riffs are echo perfect.

Drummer Ringo Starr is probably the easiest Beatles to play, because he doesn’t say too
much. Mostly he smiles and makes peace signs, but Ralph Castelli’s drumbeat is rock-
steady, like Ringo’s.

Add to this authentic costumes from early Beatles Hamburg, mid-Beatles Abbey Road,
late mid-Beatles Sgt. Pepper and final Beatles scruffy and authentic vintage guitars and
Vox amps and you have a visual treat to go with the aural pleasure of guys who sound
and act exactly like the Beatles.

These guys don’t waste time either, packing more than two-dozen tunes into a show
enhanced by vintage commercials, cartoons and news clips.

I never got to see the Beatles live in concert. I have seen McCartney and Starr in separate
concerts several times. As enjoyable as their concerts are, there is no substitute for the
Beatles as a group. “Rain” is about as close as you are going to get at this point in time.
Tickets are $25.25-$65.25. Call 954-462-0222 or go to www.browardcenter.org