By Katie Scarvey
kscarvey@salisburypost.com
Sometimes, people think twice about going to St. Thomas Players plays because they often tackle serious subject matter.
The troupe’s latest offering, however, “Almost, Maine,” is laugh-out-loud fun.
Director Justin Dionne wants people to know that “Almost, Maine” is a romantic comedy and a great date night play.
“The guys will like it, too,” he says. “It’s got fun, cute romantic stuff but really good physical comedy that the guys will like and appreciate. There are just some guffawing moments in the play.”
Dionne grew up in Salisbury and has spent most of his life here, and so he knows small towns well. Almost, Maine could almost be Salisbury.
“Let me tell you, it’s true what they say about small towns…everybody knows everybody,” Justin says. “I don’t think that’s a bad thing. It’s a sense of community; people know each other better and understand each other more.
“These characters know each other, either directly or through connections. They are coworkers, drinking buddies, friends, and acquaintances. And in communities, small or large, love happens. Good love, hurtful love, head over heels, awkward, honest, REAL love.”
Featured in the play are Aaron Alderman, Emily Bartsch, Jacob Brayton, Cale Evans, Michelle Fleshman-Cross, Lynne Harrell, Brian Romans and Emily Schuttenberg.
“The talent in the play is ridiculous,” Dionne says. “There’s a lot of great young talent.”
Set and lighting designs were done by Catawba interns.
The play will feature original music composed by local musicians, including David Myers, Mason Jewett, Jerod Jacobs, Christian Dionne, Tripp Edwards, Aaron Alderman and Chris Speer.
“Almost, Maine” will be performed at the Florence Busby Corriher Theatre on the campus of Catawba College behind Keppel Auditorium, August 3-6, 10-13, at 7:30 pm.
Group tickets (eight and more) are available at a 25 percent discount.
Opening night is half-price ticket night. Purchase at the door, first come, first served.
Regular tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance at the Literary Bookpost (cash only) in downtown Salisbury, online at www.stthomasplayers.org, or by phone at 704-647-0999.
Call Center for Faith & The Arts at 704-647-0999 if you have questions or if you need group tickets. Email faithart@bellsouth.net.