by Stephanie Turner

Love dominates the magical town of Almost, Maine in the Valdosta State Theatre production of John Cariani’s comedic play, “Almost, Maine.”

According to H. Duke Guthrie, director and Theatre and Dance area chair, and Philip Jones, senior and student director, the play is centered around “romantic love.” Guthrie selected this “new and exciting” play in hopes that it will relate to students. The overall play follows different characters in different stories pertaining to the “universal theme” of love; eleven actors will portray nineteen roles. The play is contemporary, so not only will students be able to “identify with some issues that we have (all) dealt with,” but it will be easy to understand.

Cast members are also excited about the show. Four of the actors, freshman Barbara Ann Hembrick (Sandrine and Rohanda), sophomores Isaac Huntington (Steve and man) and Emih Abarhamson (Marvalyn and Marcie) and senior Elizabeth Dunn (Glory and Hope) all agreed that the play’s magical atmosphere, modern speech, and relatable plot will draw audiences in.

“There’s something for everyone,” Dunn said.

The play does not contain any sort of bad language, but be warned, since the play is centered around love, there some “adult themes” featured in a few scenes .

“Almost, Maine” opens Thursday September 17th, with showings on the 18th, 19th and 21st to the 23rd at 7:30 pm, with a matinée showing at 3 pm on Sunday September 20th. Students are admitted for free; just have your ID with you. However, the theatre has limited seating, so students are encouraged to stop by the box office, located on the first floor of the Fine Arts building, to place a $5 deposit; this will be refundable on the day you come to the show. For more details visit the theatre department’s website.