AUBURN — L/A Community Little Theatre’s production of “Almost, Maine” breathes charm and chemistry into a beloved and familiar tale of love and connection in the great northern expanse.

It would almost be impossible for a theater patron in Maine to be oblivious to the withstanding
popularity and ubiquity of “Almost, Maine,” the immensely successful 2004 play by Presque Isle’s own John Cariani.

The play, touted as one of the most popular in the United States, is a series of short plays
rooted in the unincorporated township of Almost, located 163 miles from Bangor … or, as you might say, “Way up there.”

But this telling of the now-classic play, directed with heart and authenticity by Jackie McDonald
and played by CLT’s actors with earnest, simple deference to the magic realism of the script, is
unique and worth revisiting.

The first thing noticed before the show even begins is just how authentic and “real” the set looks. The beautifully painted winter backdrop and the exteriors of well-worn homes on stage look real, lived in, and very Maine.

“Almost, Maine” consists of nine scenes and a prologue, interlogue and epilogue. Though characters essentially appear only in their respective scenes, the script’s smart writing — with references to other characters, places and events — helps the vignettes feel connected, warm and like “community,” rather than disparate, separated scenes.

At the top of the show, we see Pete, played by Gregory Judd, and Ginette, played by Heather
Marichal, in a rather one-sided effort to connect on a bench while watching the northern lights.
When communication fails, Greg ends up sitting alone on a bench through each scene of the
play. His quips as the narrative progresses and his eventual reconciliation with Ginette provide a
funny, sweet thoroughfare throughout the show, and both actors have a chemistry and
sweetness that sets the tone for the production.

East, a repairman who isn’t great with social cues, and Glory, a fast-talking hiker who
camps in East’s backyard without permission, have a lovely scene that speaks of grief and
connection with the fantastical elements that make “Almost, Maine” beloved. Glory’s broken heart is literally in her backpack, and East, who is a repairman, may be able to fix it.

David Moyse, as East, nails the simple, earnest charm of a northern Mainer, and Lacey Moyse plays Glory’s somewhat “all over the place” nature very well.

Another scene takes place in the local watering hole, where Jimmy, played very well by Jason Pelletier, is pining after Sandrine, played by Sophie Messina, who has moved on. In typical “Almost, Maine” fashion, Jimmy’s situation takes a turn thanks to a comical tattoo typo.

In one of my favorite scenes, Marvalyn, a recent transplant to Almost, and Steve, a guy who
can’t feel pain, share some hilarious physical comedic moments while doing laundry. But
Marvalyn, who is played expertly by Katy Albert, is harboring a secret pain of her own. Steve, played by Tony Roy, is perfect in his kindheartedness, and the reveal at the end of their shared scene is heartwarming.

Then, we have the scene “They Fell,” where Randy and Chad, two bub-guys, realize that they might actually be more than bub-guys. Bob Sawyer and Tony Roy balance the physical slapstick
humor, trepidation, and feelings perfectly in this standout scene.

In another scene, we have what appears to be an irredeemable relationship. Brian Pfohl plays Phil, with the sort of anger and entitlement that sells the scene. Opposite him is Marci, played perfectly by Elise Christie, in a scene that contrasts the bittersweet tone of much of the play as Marci has a decision to make.

Hope, played by Lynn Thibault McLain, and “Man,” played by Bob Sawyer, have an extremely bittersweet exchange in their scene about an answer delivered way too late.

And in another scene, Jenny and Daniel Rennie absolutely shine as Rhonda and Dave, a hardworking, snowmobiling pair who give love a shot.

In a ninth scene, Gayle, played by Hillary Perry, portrays a kind woman at the end of her patience. Meanwhile, Lendall, played by Jason Pelletier, is an enigma until the end of the scene. Both actors play their roles wonderfully.

Next weekend, the cast will shake it up and each actor will take a different role. But if the chemistry and warmth are anything like this past weekend, audience members are in for a real
treat of a trip way up north to Almost, Maine.

Performances will be held Feb. 26, 27 and 28 at 7:30 p.m. and March 1 at 2 p.m. All performances will take place at L/A Community Little Theatre, 30 Academy St. Tickets are $25 for adults, $22 for students and seniors. Children 13 and under are $17. Tickets can be purchased on CLT’s website at laclt.com or by calling the box office at 207-783-0958 or email [email protected].