Almost, Maine premiered in New College’s Black Box Theater (BBT) Feb. 1 and ran until Feb. 4, 2024, bringing in the new school year with lots of glorified love, pain and even sweet release. Written by John Cariani, Almost, Maine was performed by a handful of New College students. The show was directed by Professor of English and Theater, Dance & Performance Studies Nova Myhill in collaboration with students Jane Major, Audrey Dixon, Mikayla Hunter and Sophia Quickel. Each student directed at least two scenes, and the play was a hit indeed. It was no-brainer that the event sold out, but a Catalyst reporter was able to snatch a last-minute ticket. The cast and production kept the audience on the edge of their seats, holding onto the last tissue until the very end.
The play was set in Almost, Maine, a fictional small town in the Northeast countryside. Student actors did a creative take on the play’s characters, all the while kissing, falling, fighting and much more. Shakespearean passion was felt as the students became the teachers, and the cast came to life. The play took the audience through waves of emotion as the scenes played out, each a short, unique love story, creating an anthology perfect for the Valentine’s season. The audience witnessed star- crossed lovers in a first encounter, a widow mending her broken heart, friendships that turned into relationships, wake-up calls and old relationships reuniting. The production was noteworthy: on point, outrageously passionate and rich.
New College’s Theater, Dance & Performance Studies program had at least three months to prepare for just a few days on stage. One can see the practice, the dedication, the talent and the perfection that emerged throughout their interpretation of Almost, Maine.. It was not just a wholesome story, but a wholesome production entirely. For anyone who missed Almost, Maine, the BBT’s next performance of the Spring semester will bring more live theater and drama to New College soon. All’s Well That End’s Well will be coming to the Black Box, along with more plays produced by New College students and faculty.