When Senior Jack O’Neill first heard about this year’s play, he was unsure — until its comedic script and variety of scenes won him over. 

Baldwin High School’s rendition of Almost, Maine for the winter play is different from previous productions due to both its unique setup and anticipation from last year. Due to Covid, there was no play last year, making this the first opportunity for underclassmen to participate. 

This rom-com includes multiple scenes that depict different forms of love through nine sets of couples, showing scenarios such as heartbreak, hopelessness, and romantic relationships. Due to the setting being a small town, all of the stories are intertwined, though the characters have no direct interaction with one another aside from the location. The play is set in the winter time and takes place over the course of one night.  

The audition process was held within the theater class. Each student read a part from a scene and theater teacher Cassidy Cooper and physics teacher Alexander Bowman decided on the roles based on students’ performances. Auditions were also open to interested students who do not take theater.

This year is Cooper’s first time being in charge of the play. At her previous school, however, she was a part of the theater department. 

“I teach the theater class here and in order for them to really understand and appreciate what it takes to produce a show, I wanted them to be a part of the production,” Cooper said. 

For students who are in her class, their second-quarter grade is based on the production of the play.

“They’ll learn about how to create costumes, sets, and everything it takes to create a show. It’s their big end of the course project,” Cooper said.

O’Neill and Olivia Garofalo open the play. Garofalo, a sophomore, is playing as Ginette, the love interest of Pete, O’Neill’s character. They look forward to working with each other. 

“I didn’t know Olivia at all before the show. I am sure that will change now that we have started rehearsing together,” O’Neill said. 

Full-cast rehearsals have started this month. The play will be performed at 7 p.m. on Jan. 13, 14, and 15.

Garofalo said she believes the audience will enjoy watching the production due to the comedic nature of the play, which makes it lighthearted and fun.

“A lot of work goes into the play and I am having a very fun time preparing for it,” Garofalo said.