Audio Adventures in Time and Space
Story #28
reviewed by Kathy Sullivan
"The Rani Reaps the Whirlwind"
by Pip & Jane Baker
"The Rani Reaps the Whirlwind" opens where "Time and the Rani" ended--with the Rani hanging upside down, now a captive of the Tetraps she had been about to abandon. She is put on trial by her former servants and sentenced to death, a sentence that will be delayed only if she helps replenish her captors' food supply--blood.
The story then shifts briefly to Earth. Three friends are captured by Tetraps for the Rani's experiments. But the Rani decided to enlist the aid of her experimental subjects for something of more importance to her--her escape. But can the humans trust someone who has already proven she cares for no one but herself?
This is a chilling story at times, as the humans slowly realize what has happened to them and the purpose for which they have been brought to the Tetraps' home planet. The Rani hasn't changed--she still believes that all lifeforms are for her exploitation and experimentation, with no consideration of the physical or emotional harm she causes. It is probably only due to her experiences with the Doctor's companions in the past that causes her to think that humans can help her, since she doesn't demand the help of any of the other alien races in her laboratory.
Kate O'Mara steps back into the role of The Rani perfectly. Arrogant, demanding, cold, inconsiderate--her performance of the character reminds the listener why Time Lords are often feared by other beings. Anthony Keetch, Edward Cory and Patricia Merrick all carry their dual roles wonderfully, keeping their characters distinct enough that you don't notice until you read the credits that there actually isn't a large cast.
Pip & Jane Baker's "The Rani Reaps the Whirlwind" is an interesting examination of the troubles an arrogant being can get into and how human resourcefulness is not something to be overlooked. The resolution of the story leaves the return of the Rani possible in future audios, and it will be interesting to see if BBV does bring her back.
Directed by Bill Baggs, "The Rani Reaps the Whirlwind" has music and post production by Mike Neilson.
The cast includes Kate O'Mara as The Rani, Anthony Keetch as Urak/Dean, Edward Cory as Sam/Vorag, Patricia Merrick as Lucy/Pivor, and Brian Knight as Arbitus.
60 minutes
Recommended.