Review: Romantic comedy ALMOST MAINE springs to life at Allen Contemporary Theatre

Almost, Maine

By John Cariani

Directed by Martin Mussey and Nancy Cecco

Produced by Allen Contemporary Theatre

Audience Rating: PG
Running Time: 1 hour 45 minutes with 15 minute intermission
Accessible Seating: Available
Hearing Devices: Not Available
Sensory-Friendly Showing: Not Available
ASL Performance: Not Available
Volume Level: Normal
Noises and Visuals to Prepare For: Nothing of particular note

Reviewed by Grant Palmore

Almost, Maine, the romantic comedy by John Cariani, finds its perfect home at Allen Contemporary Theatre, where the charmingly quirky characters and wistful, heartwarming moments spring to life. This intimate production captures the bittersweet beauty of love, loss, and serendipity in a small, fictional town in northern Maine. With a talented ensemble and a directing team attuned to the delicate balance of humor and emotional depth, the play strikes a resonant chord that will stay with you long after the final curtain.

This play consists of nine short vignettes, each exploring the complexities of relationships. The simple yet impactful set allows the characters’ emotional journeys to take center stage. The talented cast, whose performances range from comedic to deeply poignant, infuses the characters with a sense of universality. Whether it’s the joy of a new romance or the sorrow of letting go, each actor brings a refreshing vulnerability to their role. It’s difficult to mention specifics of each members excellence without spoiling how each scene unfolds, but the cast is stacked with an amazing group of performers: Brian Hoffman, Maxine Frauenheim, Johnny Jordan Jr., Sydney Dyer, Jamie Gutzler, Brett Femrite, Ian Grygotis, Kathleen Vaught, Tim Demsky, and Noelle Saul.

The cast’s chemistry is one of the show’s strongest assets. Their ability to play off one another, whether in moments of quiet tenderness or comic absurdity, reflects the beauty of connection in all its forms. Their portrayal of a relationship’s turning point feels authentic and relatable, encapsulating the heart of the play in just a few short moments. Additionally, most actors in this production perform as different characters in multiple scenes, further demonstrating their talent and range. 

The direction by Martin Mussey and Nancy Cecco does a remarkable job of pacing, ensuring that each vignette feels fresh and engaging. While Almost, Maine can sometimes verge on sentimental, the production keeps it grounded, allowing for real emotional depth without tipping into melodrama. The shifts between humor and heartache are handled deftly, with the lighting and sound design subtly enhancing the emotional landscape of the piece (Lights by John Pinchot and Sound & Original Music by Kevin Vaught, Set by Chris Bethelot. )

As Almost, Maine draws to a close, it leaves the audience with a warm feeling that lingers. Allen Contemporary Theatre’s production of this beloved play is a reminder that, even in a world full of uncertainty, there’s always space for connection, love, and unexpected magic.

There is still to capture that magic before it’s gone! Almost, Maine by Allen Contemporary Theatre runs in Allen, TX, Friday January 24 through Sunday February 9.

Check It Out!

Grant Palmore