Cast members from the SFA School of Theatre's upcoming production of John Cariani's "Almost, Maine" rehearse a scene in which a couple struggles to locate the same star on which to make a wish. Pictured here are Dallas senior Margaret Lewis and Houston sophomore Kurt Bilanoski. The play will be presented in W.M. Turner Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 5, through Saturday, Oct. 9.

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - As the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Theatre prepares for its Oct. 5 opening of "Almost, Maine," it joins theaters across the country and abroad that are presenting John Cariani's new romantic comedy.

Through nine vignettes that all take place at 9 o'clock on a cold winter evening in a mythical small town in Maine, Cariani explores the mysteries of the human heart, said Allen Oster, SFA professor of theatre and the show's director.

Whether they're spending the Friday night at home, the Moose Paddy, a potato field, Echo Pond or a laundry room, Cariani's characters fall in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways, Oster continued.

Cast member Rosie Kolbo, Dallas junior, said the play's humor comes naturally. "The characters aren't trying to be funny at all. They're just put into humorous situations to which the audience members can easily relate."

"If you're wanting a real, genuine show about real people, 'Almost, Maine' is perfect," said actor Kurt Bilanoski, Houston sophomore. "Sweet yet not sappy, happy yet sad, awkward and still beautiful, Cariani creates a perfect story of love that any one can connect to."

"Almost, Maine" will open at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 5, in W.M. Turner Auditorium and run through Saturday, Oct. 9. A joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts and School of Theatre, it is sponsored in part by Tipton Ford-Lincoln-Mercury.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for seniors and students. It is not recommend for children under 10. For tickets or more information, please go to www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.