Community Theater's Fall Production is Almost, Maine, An Enchanting Romantic Comedy

Love in the winter with a humorous twist is the theme of Paul's Player's fall production,  Almost, Maine. This contemporary romantic comedy by John Cariani will be presented on November 15 and 16, 2013 at 7:30 and November 17, 2013 at 3:00. Performances are at St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, 27475 Five Mile Road, Livonia. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and students.  Purchase tickets online at Eventbrite.com, or reserve tickets at 248-347-4134. Tickets will also be available at the door.

 This crowd pleasing comedy, set in the small town of Almost, Maine, is a series of vignettes about falling in love, spiced with a touch of good-natured, magical realism. The ensemble cast finds themselves in unexpected romantic encounters that change their lives forever.  “The play explores love in all its facets and phases,” says Rachel Kain, a Livonia writer and IT Specialist, who portrays two different characters in the production. “I’m also enjoying the challenge of portraying more than one character, especially since my characters are so vastly different!” Joining Kain in the ensemble cast are: Kate Mackie, Daniel Lynn, and Phil Sattler, Livonia; Pam Gunderson, Redford; Hannah Taubitz, Warren; Nick Szczerba, Brownstown; Aaron White, Highland.

 Pat Hutchison, Director, chose this play because of its endearing storyline, but also for its heartwarming and charming characters, people the playwright describe as “simple, but definitely not stupid.” There was also a practical upside to the ensemble piece, Hutchison said.. “It allowed me to create a very flexible rehearsal schedule, which is perfect for community theater with people of all ages who have different life responsibilities.” 

 Kain says Almost, Maine is “so honest - it’s the actor’s challenge to bring honesty to each scene, without slipping into sentimentality or stereotype.” It all comes together perfectly on stage, in this entertaining play that the New York Times called “a whimsical approach to the joys and perils of romance.”