2011 marks the 50th anniversary of the publication of a book of short stories by Saskatchewan writer W.O. Mitchell (pictured) set on a fictional farm near Crocus, Saskatchewan where a hired hand named Jake helps a single mother with a young son look after the homestead.

Mitchell began writing the Jake & the Kid stories for CBC radio in 1950. Overall, 300 episodes were produced. This theatrical adaptation was written by Conni Massing,  and  sees Jake set out to build a rainmaking machine to save Crocus from drought.

Jake & the Kid opens on the Globe Theatre’s main stage tonight and runs until May 15.  Aidan Morgan has generously agreed to see the play and review it for the blog so keep an eye out. And for ticket info call 525-6400.