By Alexandra Sukin ’15, Co-Editor-in-Chief
This weekend the Country Day Drama Department is performing Almost Maine, a whimsical play written by John Cariani, which features nine sweet and quirky vignettes about love. Set in the eponymous Almost, Maine—unrecognized territory in a state characterized by chunky sweaters and thick wool-lined boots—during a snowy winter, the milieu of the play is a pleasant rotation of a starry sky, which seems to shift in color with the mood of each scene. The 20 characters are played by only 11 talented Country Day actors, which is no small feat and requests that the audience suspend reality for just over an hour and a half to enjoy the magic of this scenic and engaging play.
Teja Atluri ’16 stars in the opening scene as Pete, an overly pragmatic character who seems unable to connect with the affectionate Jeanette. Employing thematic similes—like the world as a snowball—the lines are compelling and endearing. The comedic intervals are frequent and enjoyable; Claire Beyette ’15 seems to have found her calling as a girl who can’t quite figure out how to keep all her lovers away! Gentle musical interludes compliment blue scenes that fade smoothly into each other. And the actors don wintry costumes—boots, heavy coats and jeans that make you forget it’s not actually snowing.
The play is dotted with a few adorable kisses. Elizabeth Miller ’15, who plays a woman going to see the northern lights so she can pay her respects to the husband that jilted her, is kissed not just once, but three times by Jack Hupper ’15. The play is eccentric, with surprising plot twists, a man who can’t feel pain (which makes for interesting dialogue), love that becomes a physical object you can hold or look for, and there is some talk of “butt-whupping.” Frankie Grossi character falls in love with Atluri’s second character, which was enough to earn the play censorship in a North Carolina school and generate a bit of controversy.
The cast is able to make the implausible plausible, bring the stage to life, and celebrate the splendor of a play that highlights love (almost). And big kudos to Mr. Mark Femia who directs another wonderful play and showcases the excellence of the Country Day Drama Department. Anyone in need of a good laugh or to be reminded of the best parts of winter should be sure to attend the play on Friday, Saturday afternoon or Saturday night this weekend.
