By CONNIE NOLEN / Community Columnist

“I chose Almost, Maine for our fall production because I knew I had the perfect cast for the show. They are phenomenal in these roles,” said PHS Theatre teacher Jamie Stephenson. “Almost, Maine is all about love—the beauty, sadness, joy and humor of love.”

Catching the students at a recent dress rehearsal as they prepared for both competing with Almost, Maine (as they host their District Trumbauer competition), and for a community performance in mid-November, this group’s camaraderie proves they are the perfect ensemble for a play about tender emotions.

“Almost, Maine is my favorite of all the shows we’ve done since I’ve been at PHS,” said senior Lydia Cobb. “It has a universal theme. Everyone can relate to the spectrum of emotions that being in love brings. This play is poignant.”

“My seniors this year are incredible!” Stephenson said. “They lift up the department and help the younger kids. They are working day and night on their project.”

On Nov. 2, PHS plays host to the District 6 Alabama Conference of Theatre’s Walter Trumbauer Festival. Drawing many other high school theatre departments from the area, PHS students will have the chance to perform, collaborate and audition for scholarships.”

“Hosting competitive theatre events helps the kids build a sense of community as a troupe. Also, more parents get involved and come see how well their children are doing in theatre,” said Stephenson.

Planning months in advance, Stephenson is excited to host many theatre students and teachers from Shelby County and other counties that make up District 6.

“My students gain pride in their department when we host other schools. They are more confident on their own turf. They meet new people and my younger students ones get to see what competing requires,” said Stephenson.

The community is invited to watch students compete and perform on Saturday, Nov. 2 as PHS both hosts and participates in Trumbauer. Performances of Almost, Maine will be the weekend of Nov. 15 with 7 p.m. evening performances and a 2 p.m. Sunday matinée with tickets available for $5 at the door.