Almost, Maine

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https://www.stirlingplayers.org.au

Date Reviewed: 11/07/2025

On a cold, wet, wintry night, we were met with a very warm welcome at the Stirling Theatre, and the cosy, comfortable feeling lasted until the end of this fabulous play.

I knew nothing of Almost, Maine beforehand, but what a treat it is. Written in 2004 by John Cariani—better known as the actor who played Julian Beck in Law & Order the play is a collection of brief stories exploring love in its many forms: new, unexpected, unrequited, lost, and second chances. All are beautifully portrayed by seven excellent young actors under Ben Proeve’s modest and gentle direction.

Accepting a thoughtfully provided blanket on the way in, we entered the theatre to find actors Sam Ewart and Annabel McGregor already on stage, sitting on a snow-covered park bench, each silently contemplating their feelings—a tender reminder of those early relationship moments.

The stories unfold under the Northern Lights in Almost, an unofficial town in northern Maine (the residents never quite got organized enough to make it official). Loose connections between the tales add a lovely touch, reminiscent of Love Actually.

Sam Ewart and Oliver Medwell shine in their portrayal of first-date awkwardness and the dawning realization of mutual affection—their physical comedy making the moment both unexpected and hilarious.

Harri Wolff delivers standout performances in her dual roles. As Sandrine, she encounters her ex, Jimmy (a lonely yet optimistic Ewart), who hasn’t moved on as she has. Later, as Marvalyn, she is spontaneous and guarded in her interaction with Steve.

In my favourite scene, Gayle (a wonderfully flustered Kodi Jackson) tries to return all the love Lendall (a perfectly baffled Tim Stoeckel) has given her, pressured by others’ expectations that their relationship should have progressed further.

Kaila Barton is moving as Glory, carrying her broken heart in a bag while seeking the Northern Lights to bid farewell to her late husband. She entrusts her heart to repairman East (Medwell), in whose garden she has camped. Later, Barton plays Marci opposite Stoeckel’s Phil—a married couple reconnecting over a lost shoe, a moment many in the audience would recognize.

Annabel McGregor gives a particularly touching performance as Hope, returning to rekindle a relationship with Daniel (Stoeckel), though she doesn’t recognize him at first.

The simple yet effective set, smooth scene transitions, and minimal but skillfully used props provide all the necessary context. The Northern Lights backdrop adds a magical touch, twinkling at each pivotal romantic moment.

This play is well worth the drive, even in winter rain, and I look forward to seeing more from this talented theatre group and its wonderful cast.

Reviewed by Deb Secombe