TFS Acting Students Embrace Love, Loss and Hope in Stage Production of John Cariani’s ‘Almost, Maine’ 

Toronto Film School acting students will get into the holiday spirit when their upcoming production of John Cariani’s Almost, Maine hits the stage at the Papermill Theatre.

Directed by Christel Bartelse, the 75-minute production comprises of eight short stories that play out on a frigid December night in a remote, mythical town called ‘Almost’ in rural upstate Maine.

“We began this project back in October, and I wanted to choose something that would be a fitting piece as we enter the holidays – a fun and celebratory time. Often a time of love. However, it can also be a very challenging time for many,” Bartelse said.

“This play is all about love and connection. But more than anything, it’s about hope. And in these trying times, sometimes hope is all we have.”

Bartelse said that when she presented her cast of fifth-term Acting for Film, TV & the Theatre with two options for their end-of-term stage production, Almost, Maine – which had been on her radar for years – immediately became the frontrunner.

Within the play, she said she found opportunities to both challenge each of her student cast members and to showcase their unique talents.

“I was looking forward to reading the script with the cast and was excited that the group was inspired by this selection. It immediately created great moments of discussion and so much to uncover in every rehearsal,” she said.

“It’s been an absolute joy to dive deep into this powerful, funny and touching play by a gifted writer…I think you will all find a moment in which you can relate.”

Almost, Maine, which is stage managed by Alecks Ambayec, will take to the stage at the Papermill Theatre for a three-performance run on December 19, 20 and 21 as follows:

• Thursday, December 19 at 7:30 p.m.
• Friday, December 20 at 5:00 p.m.
• Saturday, December 21 at 6:00 p.m.

The Papermill Theatre is located at Todmorden Mills, 67 Pottery Rd. Tickets are free and available at the door.

Creative Team Behind Almost, Maine:

Len Arden