Even with Mr. DiDonato stepping out of the director’s chair, fans of HMHS productions needn’t fear for the 2023 fall play. Where last year was the successful comedy, The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood, this year’s play by John Cariani brings a touch of heart, emotion, and a little bit of magic. Entitled Almost, Maine, the fall play features a set of vignettes, each one depicting a different story, all happening at the same moment, under the landscape of the northern lights in a part of Maine that’s considered unorganized territory (hence the “almost”).
“I think people will like this show because of the heart and effort that makes this show so important,” explained Char Viola, a senior and the student director of the production, “I believe it will resonate with a lot of people.” Other members of this year’s dedicated cast and crew include Jason Cutts, the new director, Peter Landis and Justin Sullivan, the only seniors in cast, and 18 other equally-credited actors being featured in their respective vignettes. The play’s vignettes cover various themes, from a struggling marriage, to a woman who travels around the entire world, to even a couple literally falling for each other. With this group of kids, the show is sure to carry both the heavy emotional baggage of each scene, as well as bring a bit of whimsy to the forefront.
On the tech elements of the show, Camila Manskopf, who is part of the lighting crew, expressed excitement at the visual elements needed for this production. “The lighting crew is planning on recreating Maine’s stunning northern lights,” she explained, “It will contribute to the overall scenic design.” Bob Schindel, the supervisor for set construction, has also already begun work, with students joining him for set building every weekend.
Even with rapid changes in management for the club, HMHS’s thespian troupe has begun pulling together a phenomenal celebration of love, loss, and most importantly, hope. Both funny and exciting, this show is good for audiences middle school and up, with performances being the 20th, 21st, and 22nd of October.
Tickets can be bought at hmhs.booktix.net, with student and senior tickets at $12 and general admission $15.
