USI Theatre begins Spring Semester with Almost Maine

University of Southern Indiana Theatre is proud to kick off the 2026 Spring Semester with Almost Maine by John Cariani, Thursday, February 19 through Sunday, February 22, at the USI Performance Center.

Set in the fictional town of Almost, Maine, the play unfolds over the course of a single winter night beneath the northern lights. Through a series of interwoven vignettes, the town’s residents experience moments of longing, joy, heartbreak and hope as they navigate the complexities of human connection.

Directed by Eric Altheide, Professor of Theatre, Almost Maine is known for its gentle humor, magical realism and emotional honesty. The production offers student performers the opportunity to portray multiple roles, challenging them to explore a wide range of characters and relationships.

Returning to assist Altheide and serve as the show’s Stage Manager, is USI Theatre alumna Ashleigh Culiver, a successful actress and social media manager who has been involved with theatre companies from San Francisco to Chicago. She will bring her professional experience and knowledge to USI students involved in the production.

Cast for the show includes Ethan Hoover, senior; and Rayn Miller, senior. Emma Marshall, junior; Will Monroe, junior; and Morgan Ray, junior. Kris Carlos, sophomore; and Car Downs, sophomore; and making their debut, Qais Jawabreh, freshmen; Meredith Spooner, freshmen; and Dezarae Washington, freshmen.

The artistic team includes:

• Graphic Designer - Beth Weigand, USI Senior Graphic Design Artist
• Scenic Designer - Paul Weimer, Chair of the Performing Arts Department
• Lighting Designer - Matthew Ishee, Assistant Professor of Theatre
• Sound Designer - Emma Marshall, Junior Performing Arts Student 
• Technical Director - Jacob Reynolds, USI Theatre Technical Coordinator
• Intimacy Coordinator - Jaddyn Sage, Lecture - Performing Arts, Dance
• Operations Manager - Adam Funkhouser, Senior Administrative Assistant

Tickets are $2 for USI students, $10 for USI employees, $4 for non-USI students (student ID required), $10 seniors (60+) and $12 for adults. Tickets are free to USI students with ID one hour before each performance begins based on availability. Shows start at 7 p.m. Thursday, February 19 through Saturday, February 21 and 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 22 for the matinee.