Looking for a romantic idea for Valentine’s Day and the weekend of? Great Bend Community Theatre has an answer — get tickets for the romantic comedy “Almost, Maine” by John Cariani. The play blends surrealism with real-life feelings and emotions when it comes to the subject of love. The New York Times calls it “Thornton Wilder crossed with the Twilight Zone.”

Doug Simmons said what he loves most about directing “Almost, Maine” is the opportunity to showcase the young talent in the area. The entire cast is under 40, the youngest cast he can recall in the 11 years that he has been associated with the Great Bend Community Theatre.

“Almost, Maine” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 14, 15 and 16, and a 2 p.m. matinee on Feb. 17 at the Crest Theater, 1905 Lakin Ave. Tickets are $12 and may be purchased at the box office from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Feb. 11-16, and 1-2 p.m. on Feb. 17. A reception with wine and cheese will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday the 16th. Tickets for the reception may be purchased in advance during box office hours or at the door for $10.

A fun show

Actor Demetrius T. Johnson Jr. said that he has had fun every night working on the show and that everyone has been great from day one. He added that his favorite part of acting at the Crest is getting to know new faces. This will be Elisa Stout’s theatrical debut. She said being on stage has been good for her, as it has been a good way of experiencing self-discovery, expression and creativity.

Other cast members are Mario Espino, Marcus Mull, Josie Hickey, Lyle Jones, Jessie Bronge, Terra DeCarolis, Matt Mazouch and Erin Ferguson. Assisting Simmons at directing and stage managing is Bonnie LeRoy. Luke Abbott is responsible for sound and light production. Original music for this production was composed and performed by Debonair Dinosaur, a Jazz combo based in Columbia, Mo.

For questions regarding tickets, call the Great Bend Community Theatre, 620-792-4228.