The students grow together because of the play’s unique structure
The Washington Township High School Way Off Broadway Players will tackle the theatrical version of a romantic comedy on Nov. 15, 16 and 17 with John Cariani’s “Almost, Maine.”
“Almost, Maine” is the story of the citizens of Almost, a fictional town in Maine. The play follows the stories of 19 people on one night. Each story is different, but intertwined with the rest.
Junior Kaila Parkin, who plays Hope, likes how unique “Almost, Maine” is.
“It’s a show about nine couples and their interpretation of love and how they go through life either with a significant other or not,” she said. “I think it’s cool because it’s different than other shows we’ve done before.”
Parkin elaborated, “I love this show. I love this show so much more than other shows because it’s not like a fairy tale where everyone knows the story. I like it because you are experiencing it with one other person. I’ve gotten to connect with my scene partner so much more than I would have if we were in multiple scenes with multiple people.”
For stage director and senior Mackenzie Hoose, seeing the play through different eyes yields a familiar feeling.
“It’s such an amazing thing,” she said. “Everybody is so unique with their characters and they built such great relationships with each other. Everybody’s grown so, so much. I feel like they really connected with their characters.”
As the stage director Hoose helps run the show; she works with both the crew and the cast, which in turn gives her some direction in calling the show.
For senior Lindsay Hazzan, the themes of the show make it a must-see for people of all ages.
“Bring your kids,” Hazzan said. “I think you should bring your kids to this show. It’s an important show — we have a gay couple in the show. We’ve never had a gay couple on a township stage before. There are themes that I think children should be exposed to whether or not they think it’s a ‘children’s show.’”
Senior Samantha Grasso feels gratitude for the Way Off Broadway Players for helping shape her as an actress.
“Township drama has allowed me to grow in my acting abilities,” she said. “I definitely would not be where I am now without doing the shows here. I wouldn’t have the passion I have now if I hadn’t done all of this throughout high school.”
Hazzan and Grasso play Deena and Shelly respectively, two best friends who slowly realize they are in love with each other. To Hoose and Parkin’s point, these two epitomize growing together as actresses.
“I’m so happy and grateful to be a part of this,” Grasso said. “Especially, I don’t think I could have asked for a better scene partner.”
Director Abby Molotsky is perfect for the job when it comes to directing. She understands that, at the crux of things, the kids come first.
“I love the kids. The kids are amazing, it’s all about them,” Molotsky said. “On opening night I step back and they run the show. It’s all about teaching, they’re in charge. They’re learning skills for their future.”
“Almost, Maine” will premiere on Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Playhouse at Washington Township High School. Tickets are available online at wthsnj.booktix.com/ or at the door for $8. If you are unable to make that show, there are two more chances, Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 17 at 2:30 p.m. at the same location.
“I think the community should come out and support these kids,” Molotsky added. “They work just as hard as any sports team, they’re here every day until 5:30 practicing. It’s exhausting for them, they’re working really, really hard.”
