WSU Senior Nathen Wheeler Directs Almost, Maine – March 2-5

By Grace Ingraham, VPA Marketing Intern

When we see a play we see actors, props and costumes but what we don’t see is the behind the scenes action. The decisions and challenges to overcome to direct and produce a masterpiece.

This semester, Nathen Wheeler, a visual and performing arts major and senior at Worcester State University, rose to the challenge to take on the demanding role of director for this spring’s production of Almost Maine, a moving and funny play focusing on how love grows in northern Maine.

The production opens March 2 – 5 in Fuller Theater on the WSU campus.

Nathen directed small plays in the past but never a full-length play. He jumped on the opportunity to direct Almost, Maine, by John Cariani, for his senior capstone. “I thought it would be a fun experience and I wanted to challenge myself,” said Nathen.

Nathen acknowledged the difficulties he faced directing a play. “One thing I have learned is to stop and listen to other people’s ideas,” he said. “I struggle with wanting it my way and no one else’s but my way is not always the best direction.”

Nathen referred to the time Jasper Bliss, a WSU student who designed the costumes for the show, produced a detailed outline for every character in the play. “The ideas were so elaborate and well thought out,” said Nathen, “I had to take a step back and realize some of those ideas were a better approach than mine.”

When asked about the most rewarding part of directing, Nathen said, “My favorite part has to be watching two actors finally grasp the essence of a scene and knowing I helped them get there.”

In one scene in particular, WSU students Austin Gannon and Krystal Barrera were rehearsing their roles as the characters, Dave and Rhonda. “We were working on the scene and they weren’t quite getting it,” said Nathen. “But once we talked it through and kept rehearsing, it was so satisfying to see the scene finally fall into place.”

Nathen Wheeler’s dedication to Almost Maine shows in the detail of the upcoming production. The opportunity also encouraged him to continue direct.

The student-directed show runs March 2 – 4 at 8 p.m. and March 5 at 2 p.m. Purchase tickets at the Fuller Theater Box Office in the Administration Building, email VPABoxOffice@worcester.edu, or call 508-929-8843.