Stage II Presents “Almost, Maine.”

By Madison Petro
Staff Writer

Stage II, ESU’s theatre club, will present its production of “Almost, Maine” this weekend and, unlike what is usually produced by the theatre department, the play is run completely by students.

“Almost, Maine” is a romantic comedy written by John Cariani. The play consists of short scenes that intertwine with each other in unexpected ways.

“There’s funny scenes, dramatic scenes and romantic scenes. There’s all sides of the spectrum,” says junior Travis Brewer, who is one of five directors involved in “Almost, Maine.”

Katie Reardon, a senior who plays two roles in the production, says “Almost, Maine” is the first Stage II show she has acted in.

“It is always interesting to take directions from your peers and learn from your peers. I haven’t done a lot of comedic work before and I’ve learned comedic timing for my scenes,” says Reardon.

“I really enjoy working with my fellow students on a professional level instead of as all actors. It gives me a sense of what to expect in the real world,” junior Christopher Robinson says.

“It shows me how important every aspect of theater is. And with five directors being collaborative, communication is key,” says Robinson.

As an actor in “Almost, Maine,” Robinson refers not only to the directors collaborating with each other, but to the actors collaborating with them, as well.

“I think it’s beneficial to work with multiple directors because what I learn in one rehearsal, I can use in my other scene,” says Reardon.

“My directors have different techniques; David Kunz focuses on movement, while John Lauri focuses on character development.”

“Directing has been hard, tough. As the first thing I’ve ever directed, I’m figuring it out and the actors have been really helpful,” Lauri says.

“Almost, Maine” will be performed in the Dale Snow Theatre, also known as the “black box,” which puts the actors and audience in close proximity.

Because of the closeness, freshman Angelica Ramirez, an actor in “Almost, Maine,” says she hopes every audience member can relate to and take something away from the show.

“I believe the romantic feel of ‘Almost, Maine’ means each story can be relatable to someone in a certain way,” says Ramirez.

“There’s a lot of real-life scenarios in the play,” says Reardon, “and I hope the audience can learn from it and understand the messages.”

Show times for “Almost, Maine” are Nov. 19 through Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 22 at 2:30 p.m.

All performances will take place in the Dale Snow Theatre at the Fine and Performing Arts Center on campus.

Ticket prices are $10 for general admission, $7 for faculty and seniors and $5 for students.

For more information or to make reservations, please email esuarts@esu.edu or call (570) 422-3483, ext. 4.

Email Madison at:
mpetro3@live.esu.edu