The show opens with the original song Almost, written by John Shillington and Robin Eschner. Without revealing too many secrets, a woman cradles the pieces of her broken heart in a crumpled paper bag. A man unable to feel pain memorizes a list of the things that could potentially hurt him. Two drinking buddies literally fall over themselves, to avoid acknowledging a "Brokeback" epiphany that they love each other. Kudos to Cariani for including the realm of same-gender romance, and how friendship can sometimes take another turn.

Rapid fire dialogue, sharp wit and seamless changes between acts keep the momentum fresh and full of lighthearted fun.

Jay Lasnik’s scene design is simple, yet evocative, creating a brisk chilly feel of snowy times that define the lives of blue collar couples who spend time together fishing or ice-skating or grabbing a few brews at the local pub "The Moose Paddy."

The playwright didn’t begin to write plays until 2004.  Almost, Maine was his first production and has been produced by theaters all over the world, including as  far away as Korea, Germany, United Arab Emirates and Australia.
 
The versatile cast at 6th Street Playhouse make this production feel genuine. Whimsy is a very fragile commodity. So is the human heart.