Douglas Smith illustrated the original ‘Wicked’ novel in 1995 and has done new art for a special edition timed to the release of the movie ‘Wicked: For Good.’
Ray Routhier
Staff Writer
Ray Routhier has written about pop culture, movies, TV, music and lifestyle trends for the Portland Press Herald since 1993. He is continually fascinated with stories that show the unique character of Maine’s people and places. He’s written about why so many businesses use the made-up word “Mainely” in their names, how you can trace Portland’s history through its various smells and why Mainers lament the loss of Portland-made B&M baked beans. He’s interviewed a wide variety of filmmakers, actors, musicians and authors, including Patrick Dempsey, Tony Shalhoub, Richard Russo, Tess Gerritsen, Tony Bennett, Anna Kendrick, and Stephen King. His passions, besides writing, include baseball history, old movies and “Jeopardy!” A native of Manchester, New Hampshire, he graduated with a degree in political science from the University of New Hampshire. He lives in South Portland with his wife and two children.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Life & Culture, Maine, Things to Do
13 Maine sports bars where you can catch the big game
Find places to watch with friends and have a beer and a bite in Portland, Falmouth, Brunswick, Lewiston-Auburn, Waterville and Winslow.
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Posted inArts & Entertainment, Maine, News
Maine’s Amy Allen nominated for songwriting Grammy for work with Sabrina Carpenter and others
Allen, who grew up in Windham and South Portland, was nominated for her work on Carpenter’s ‘Man’s Best Friend’ album, as well as work with several other artists. A win in February would give her the award for a second straight year.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Life & Culture, Maine
After 20 years, ‘American Idol’s’ Julia Gagnon found a brother she had never met
The former ‘American Idol’ finalist began looking for her brother after her birth mother died in Guatemala in 2024. The search ended with a joyful reunion in North Carolina last week.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Life & Culture, Maine, News
Meet the Mainers who choreograph kisses and hugs – and sex
Intimacy director, a job that’s less than a couple decades old in film and theater, is becoming part of more local productions, helping to make potentially awkward or traumatic moments safe and predictable for the actors.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Maine
Karmo Sanders, Maine’s ‘Marden’s Lady,’ dies at 74
A playwright, teacher and performer, she delighted audiences with her over-the-top yet relatable bargain-hunting character in TV ads for the Maine salvage chain.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Life & Culture, Maine, Things to Do
13 Maine Halloween happenings to get you in the spirit
There are haunted house attractions, cemetery tours, scary movies and family-friendly fun all over the state, from Lebanon to Rockland or Kittery to Farmington.
Posted inHealth, Maine
How older Mainers decide when to downsize, stop driving or ask for help
There are ways to prepare for the difficult decisions people may need to make as they get older and become unable to live as independently as they once did.
Posted inHealth, Maine, News
5 things to think about as you age in Maine
Here’s some advice and resources on housing, wills, health care directives, driving and volunteer services.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Life & Culture, Maine
LeAnn Rimes sings about ‘Portland, Maine’ in new duet
The song was also released in 2014 by Tim McGraw and drew some local ire for the lyric ‘I don’t know where that is. And I don’t want to know.’