Behind the Curtain: Almost, Maine

The rise of the curtain; spectacular acts; applause, bow, and the curtain falls. When asked about what a play is, for most people, that would just about sum it all up. However, what most people do not know is the amount of hard work that takes place before the final act. They do not know what it takes to create a production and pull it off successfully, just like how many students do not know what it took to create Almost, Maine, Wilcox’s fall production this year.
Almost, Maine is a collection of seven, romantic short stories. Each story reveals metaphors on love and emotion. With the added comedic twists of comedy, the audience roared with laughter, giving shouts and bursts of applause.
Many actors had different parts, so they had to make sure to accurately portray the feelings of their characters in order to convey the message of each short story to the audience. According to one of the stars of the show, sophomore Jessica O’Gorman, the entire preparation took just about two months, with auditions first beginning in September. While auditions were extremely nerve-wrecking—with each student hoping to receive a special part in the production—it turned out that it would not be the most difficult part of the process. Many of the actors admitted that they had their fair share of difficulties during rehearsals. O’Gorman expresses, “For me specifically, as an actor, the challenge was memorization. Remembering your lines is one thing, but immersing yourself in the story and feeling what you say is another.” Most actors on stage had two to three minutes, of continued memorized talking in just one scene. Added to the challenge of expressing the characters it is not a surprise that O’Gorman found this tough.
Ms. Robson, the director of the production stated, “Once auditions are held, all designs have been finalized and the tech team gets to work implementing design. During this time everyone is in constant communication while implementing their ideas.” Ms. Robson shows how the production was not made just by following the director’s orders. The play was pulled off with every member working in unity, figuring things out for themselves. The final step before show time at Wilcox is called “Tech Week.” During the week, everything is put together, including the technical aspects during this week. While it is not everyone’s favorite part of the production, O’Gorman admits that it is definitely what prepares them for the final show.
However, the madness does not stop there. O’Gorman also explains how there is much more to theater to than just acting. There are a lot of technical complications too, including the stage lighting techniques, to make even one scene look perfect. O’Gorman adds, “As an audience member, it’s hard to notice all of the things that go on, like lights, sound, blocking, and set, but without it, it would be empty and unimaginative, and that’s not the point of a show like this.” While the actors have the spotlight, without the subtle technical aspects, the show would be dull. Even with all this, the process to create a production does not stop there. Some actors have additional responsibilities as publicists, and it is up to them to sell tickets and promote the show. Finally, with the combined effort of all the collaborators, the production is completed and ready for an audience.
It is certain that all the other actors are in agreement when O’Gorman comments, “I already know that it will dazzle our audience and definitely get some laughs.” Ms. Robson, the actors and actresses, and the behind-the -scene technicians were the people who made Almost, Maine a success. Ms. Robson adds after the show’s completion, “Most of our crew was brand new to theater, and they ended up doing a fantastic job. I think the audience enjoyed the show and hope this show will generate interest for the spring musical.”

The “Almost, Maine” cast are wearing big smiles following their show’s completion.
Credits: Jessica O’Gorman