Sidney Arts Center to Present Student-Written Play, ‘Requiem’

SIDNEY – Maine Arts Academy Student Theater Company plans to present “Requiem,” an original play that tells the story of the band members who performed on the Titanic. The production will take place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday January 25, at 4 p.m. on Wednesday January 26 and at 7 p.m. on Thursday January 27 at the academy at 11 Goldenrod Lane.

The play, written by MeAA second year Emily Carlton, recalls the events that unfolded in the hours leading up to the sinking of the ship.

“You’re going on a journey” in the play, playwright Carlton reflects, according to an academy press release. “These people see their whole lives descend into chaos, but they keep doing what they love until the very end.”

A discussion with the cast and crew will follow the performances. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, artists and spectators will be masked during performances.

MeAA’s Student Theater Company focuses on collaboration between student actors, directors, playwrights, and technical crew to achieve a common goal.

“You dive into all these different aspects of your craft, and it’s so rewarding to be able to take these classes at the school level,” said student principal Amara Aiken, a senior. “I learned the language of the actors, the director and the playwright. Being able to communicate with professionals and understand these aspects of theater is an experience that I could only have here at the MeAA.

“Requiem” features original music from MeAA’s electronic music ensemble, which will be performed live during the performances.

The Maine Arts Academy Theater Program is run under the direction of Jeri Pitcher and focuses on creating original theater through a collaborative workshop process. All proceeds from the performances will benefit the MeAA Student Theater Company and future productions.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. The Titanic story involves mature themes and is recommended for ages 10 and up.

For more information, visit maineartsacademy.org or call Diane Manter at 207-618-8908, ext. 901.