The 2012-2013 TRDA Mainstage Season has begun! With good reason (I'm a major) this is the season I'm most excited for. And the theater department doesn't disappoint. Almost, Maine was a beautifully constructed production from the ground up. They pulled off a near flawless production of a show I don't like. That's right - call me a college theater sinner - I don't like Almost, Maine. The show is cutesy and lovey and adorable and sometimes I just think it's too much. But this cast was fantastic and brought out all the laughs they possibly could.
Company Presentation
The theater department runs every show's front of house like a professional theater, and it is much appreciated. The poster was also beautiful, pulling in all the design elements of the show in an elegant manner that we can all appreciate. Hooray TRDA!
Set
This production's set was elegant and simplistic. Suggestive set piece let us know where we were at all times and the stone and wood arch made a beautiful frame for every stage picture. The snow was a nice touch. Throughout the performance snow even fell from the flies. It was truly gorgeous. The whole thing was framed and slightly angular which worked the whole way through. Student theater, if you're wondering why the department looks down on you sometimes it's because you simply can't match this design quality. Sorry not sorry.
Lights
Lighting is where Almost, Maine's design elements really got pulled together. It. Was. Stunning. A projection of a starry night and aurora borealis filled the background displaying the beauty and splendor of northern Maine. I can't help but once again use the word elegant. Everything about this production was simply elegant and the lighting was no exception.
Acting
Wow! Give it up for the cast of Almost, Maine guys. Not only did every actor play several roles, they did so distinctly, and without overlap. For the men - a special shout out goes to Matt Nickley (my Boston buddy) who pulled out another stunning performance. This guy is one of the best male actors we have in the department and I dare anyone to contradict me. His roles are different, distinct, and powerful. For the ladies - a special shout out goes to Rachel Johnson (a long time standard in TRDA theater hitting the stage again). Rachel's performance was lively and lovely, bringing all of the energy she has in the real world into the world of Almost.
Directing
Elizabeth Kitsos-Kang is an amazing artist. I say that both as a student, and as someone who so badly wanted to work on this production with her. Unfortunately, I did not have the opportunity. Fortunately, this cast did - and it showed. Elizabeth knew just where to put bodies, just how to pull out characters, and just when to go for the laughs. The show was all around well put together and for the I applaud the full team of Almost, Maine.
A fantastic show put on by fantastic people. Can't wait to see TRDA's next performance: Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street November 1st through 4th. Check in soon for a review of Doubt presented by Generic Theater Company.
See you in the theater,
Ed
No comments:
Post a Comment