Almost, Maine

As one of the characters in the play Almost, Maine says, “we got together to start a town but did not get any further so it’s almost a town.”

Almost, Maineis a story of people in Almost, a town in the state of Maine, U.S.A.

This series of vignettes, dealing with couples and their feelings for each other, is set in a U.S. winter. The sacrifices the artists made for their art are to be commended, considering that opening night was between 25 and 30 centigrade, and the audience were in light clothes and short sleeves.

Six actors play twenty parts, particularly challenging, as the performers changed back and forth between roles. The 1812 cast did a terrific job of same and the audience identified with each separate character.

Melanie Rowe played Ginnette, Marvalyn, Gayle and Woman, and although they were so different she played gave each a great interpretation.

Brett Whittington brought realism to his portrayals of Pete, Jimmy, Pete and Randy, working well with his partner of each scene.

Sarah Millway has good stage presence, and carried her roles of Glory, The Waitress and Rhonda with aplomb.

Rowan Francis projects well and gave the audience the correct feel for his roles, East, Lendall and Dave.

Juan Modinger gave goods performance in such varied roles as Steve, Chad and Man Modinger, maintaining the high standard of the production.

Kim Ryan good performances as Sandrine and Marci were really enjoyed by the audience.

The set was unusual. In the opening scene the two sides of the stage were black and covered with stars, creating an appropriately cold winter atmosphere. The Northern Lights, called for by the play, appear on each side in different colours.

The rear of the stage design was unique for local stages. 1812 created an amazing giant snow globe which contained a two-story house and garden behind what appeared to be a perspex ball, with snow circulating around.

Peter Kemp