Acclaimed 'Almost, Maine' play coming to Southeast

"Almost, Maine," an American comedic play of a series of short, intertwined plays that broke box office records during its 2004 premiere, is arriving later this month at the River Campus of Southeast Missouri State University, according to a news release.

The magical-realism play, written by John Cariani, consists of nine short plays that explore themes of love and loss in a remote, mythical town called Almost, Maine. On a moonless night in Maine, the residents in Almost fall in and out of love in hilarious and unexpected ways. Hearts and bruises are broken and mended -- somewhat -- throughout the night, the release said.

The play, in addition to breaking records for ticket sales, also earned critical acclaim. It was the most-produced play in regional theater in 2013.

It also was selected by the American National Theatre as one of the most outstanding regional theater productions of the 2004-2005 season and the best play of 2006.

"Normally, this series is for edgy, progressive works," said Bart Williams, Southeast instructor of acting and stage combat. "'Almost, Maine,' though, is something a bit more mainstream. While it definitely has flights of fancy, it is the closest thing to the ultimate date night our season has this year -- and it is definitely audience-friendly."

The Department of Theatre and Dance is sponsoring the performance. Megan Steck of Cape Girardeau is serving as student director of "Almost, Maine."

"Normally, only graduate students get to direct shows open to the public," Williams said. Steck is a Southeast senior pursuing a bachelor of fine arts degree in acting, with a directing option.

"Southeast has taken great strides in promoting the work of women directors," Williams said. "She has gained a lot of experience over the past two years in production management and stage management for the department main stage shows."

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. March 26 through March 29 and 2 p.m. March 30 in the Rust Theatre.

Tickets may be bought at the River Campus box office in the Cultural Arts Center at 518 S. Fountain St. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, by calling 651-2265 or by visiting RiverCampusEvents.com.