by Kelly Rogge, KCKCC
Kansas City Kansas Community College is going to Maine in its latest theater production.
Written by John Cariani, “Almost Maine” tells the story of a group of individuals who live in northern Maine, almost in Canada. Everything about the small town is almost. It almost does not exist because the town’s citizens never get around to doing anything. Then one night, the residents of Almost, Maine are seen falling in and out of love in the most strange and unusual ways. No matter what happens, life in the town will never be the same.
“Almost Maine” is at 7:30 p.m. March 3, 4, and 5 at the KCKCC Performing Arts Center, 7250 State Ave. There is also a matinee performance at 2:30 p.m. March 6. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. Admission is free for all KCKCC students, staff and faculty who present valid identification.
“This is a great little play,” said Charles Leader, director of “Almost Maine.” “Nine separate love stories all set within the same Friday night in Almost, Maine.”
“Almost Maine” premiered at the Portland Stage Company in 2004 and opened Off Broadway two years later. Since its premiere, it has become one of the most produced plays in the United States. Cariani is an award-winning actor and playwright best known for his work on the long-running show “Law & Order.” He has also had recurring roles on the CBS shows “Numb3ers” and on the IFC show “The Onion News Network.”
Of the 17-member KCKCC cast, four are KCKCC alumni – Sarah Williams, Kerri Park, Adam Lillich and Tyler Holstrom. In addition, current KCKCC student Christina Heslep is making her KCKCC stage debut as Marvalyn.
“I wanted to get involved to help face some fears that I had and show myself that there is nothing I couldn’t do,” said the sophomore in the victim services program. “The experience has been fun and exciting. I think people will like this show because it is different. It looks at romance from many different angles and perspectives.”
The cast includes Jaziel Sandoval, Pete; Savannah Ferris, Ginette; Tyler Holstrom, East and Phil; Sarah Fahnstock, Glory; Sebastian Davila, Jimmy; Rose Vang, Sandrine; Allenea Anderson, Waitress; Christina Heslep, Marvalyn; Adam Lillich, Steve; Kerri Park, Gayle and Marci; Shane Gillaspie, Lendall; Teng Kong, Randy; Jamel Toliver, Chad; Kinsasha Dydell, Hope; Shaquil Reeves, Man; Gabrielle Kempf, Rhonda and Travis Gillaspie, Dave.
For more information or to make reservations, call 913-288-7106.
Kelly Rogge is the public information supervisor at Kansas City Kansas Community College.
