Written by Farihah Kemp '25

Almost, Maine was an incredibly fun and unique experience - one of the most memorable plays I've ever been a part of! This year brought a lot of changes with our new directors and staff, which added a fresh energy to the production. Rehearsals were different in that we focused on building strong relationships with our characters and scene partners. I had the privilege of working closely with Mr. Gibbons and Ms. Esposito, who emphasized character development. Mr. Gibbons was adamant about ensuring that every action on stage felt intentional and true to our characters. Since we were so focused on character work during rehearsals, it was crucial to memorize our lines outside of practice, which proved challenging given my busy schedule. But I managed to stay on top of it.

One of the things I've always loved about the Belfry group is how authentic and unafraid everyone is to be themselves. Our group is full of vibrant energy, and I really enjoyed connecting with the underclassmen. They were hilarious, talented, and full of enthusiasm. A highlight for me was watching the stage come together. The set, with its doors and snowfall, added a magical touch to the play, and all the props brought everything to life. Watching the other scenes unfold towards the end as all the different stories came together was fascinating.

Meeting John Cariani (the author of Almost, Maine) was an unforgettable experience. He’s such a kind, honest, and energetic person. When he spoke, it was clear that he always communicated with intention and sincerity, never trying to give a “cool” answer. His wisdom and advice were invaluable, helping us all connect more deeply with our characters and ourselves. One of the things that worried me about my role was how my character's emotions fluctuated so dramatically. I was nervous the audience wouldn’t fully grasp the transitions, but it was amazing to see how well they understood and responded.

Looking back, the most important takeaway from this experience for me is learning how to manage my time effectively while also tapping into my emotions and inner self. I know these skills will serve me well, both in school and in the future.