By Lauren Simpson
WAVERLY, Iowa-The Wartburg Players is an artistic group of individuals. Each year the group comes together to create a new production for Wartburg students, faculty, and the community. Even though the production is only in its early stages, the players production of “Almost, Maine” directed by fourth year students Alyson Hasner and Lennon Schriever will have its live performances on November 8 and 9. All performances will take place in the McCaskey Lyceum.
“Almost, Maine” takes place in the fictional town Almost, in the state of Maine. There are nine love stories taking place within this town of roughly 300 people. The show takes you through stories of different displays of love, both happy and heartbreaking.
“There are [nine] love stories, and there is going to be at least one that each student can relate to,” said Wartburg Players President Abi O’Dell. “They play [the show] in such a comedic way at times but also a real way that can make you think.”
Hasner and Schriever have both been members of Wartburg Players throughout their entire college experience. They decided on “Almost, Maine” because it provides many opportunities to have a larger cast.
Hasner is a fourth year Neuroscience Major with Minors in Biology, Multimedia Journalism, and Psychology.
“Theater in general has an amazing creative outlet for me. Especially as a neuroscience major I don’t get to have a lot of fun, and Wartburg Players has been a great way for me to let loose,” said Hasner. “Lennon and myself have always enjoyed theater together and we thought we could combine our talents in a different way.”
While Hasner is not pursuing a career in the arts in the future, Schriever is a fourth year Vocal Music Performance Major. He hopes to eventually pursue a career singing for opera and performing companies.
“This position has helped me take the next step forward with my creative development and where I want to go with my career,” said Schriever.
The pair found it a different experience to take on the director spotlight. Both Hasner and Schriever have relied heavily on other resources, such as past directors and advisors as they move forward with the show.
“We always start with a read through, just to see the bare bones,” said Hasner. “Through the first read through they really surprised us with their choices and understanding of their character.”
Rehearsals have just started for this year’s production. Auditions took place during the second week of classes, and the cast began to meet for rehearsals
Students can use their Wartburg ID to receive free admission into the Players production of “Almost, Maine”. Non-Students can purchase their tickets at the door. For more information on Wartburg Players and their production of “Almost, Maine,” visit their website at https://www.wartburg.edu/players/ .
