BELFAST — The Belfast Maskers present the world premiere of local writer Tucker Atwood's new play, “Dance Again”.

“Equal parts farce, satire, and drama, ‘Dance Again’ will satisfy theater goers by tickling funny bones, pulling heartstrings, and provoking thought,” said Maskers, in a news release.

The play opens May 5 at the Basil Burwell Community Theater, 17 Court Street in Belfast, with a special $10 Preview Night Performance.

In a war-torn borderland, Billy (Tom Crutcher) and Helen (Robyn Tarantino) have created a sanctuary for themselves deep in the woods. They live in a cozy cabin, insulated from the violence, struggles, and grief of the seemingly endless conflict—or so they thought. A devastating snowstorm brings a group of soldiers, lost and freezing, to their door. The sympathetic couple lets them in to share their warmth, their company, and their supper. Soon there is another knock on the door. Two more desperate soldiers seek shelter from the storm—but they're from one of the other sides. While they attempt to keep the soldiers from realizing they are enemies, it becomes clear that this unassuming couple has more involvement with the war than expected. Spirits flow, bonds are formed, tempers flare, and old wounds are brought to the surface. If everyone survives dinner, what will the future bring for them all? Find out May 5- 15 in the Basil Burwell Community Theater.

Atwood is a high school teacher and at 26 years old, has already written and self-published five books, including a treatise on the U.S. education system entitled Pass This Note To The Teacher. On writing “Dance Again”, Tucker says, in the Maskers news release: “It’s incredible to be given this opportunity to see my work being produced. I never anticipated getting this show on a stage so close to me. And I never anticipated directing it either. Or being in it. Wait, when did I sign up for all of this??”

Joining Crutcher and Tarantino onstage is a rogue's gallery of seasoned Maskers cast and crew. The combatants are played by André Blanchard, Autumn Stupca, Chris Hayes, Jared Nickerson, Tucker Atwood, and Erik Perkins.

Dominick Williams has designed the sound and Jared Nickerson the lights, on a set designed by John Bielenberg and constructed by a crew overseen by Tech Director Brian Ross. Atwood is directing the play himself, the stage manager is Cassidy Small, and Maskers' A.D. Meg Nickerson is the producer and costumer.

“I regularly receive sample scripts from playwrights from all over the country,” said Nickerson. “I read them, tuck them away for a time, and then re-read the good ones. Tucker sent me a third draft of ‘Dance Again’ in May, 2020. I was very impressed and I asked if he would like to direct it as part of our 2022 season. I believe it’s important to support Maine playwrights and it’s a treat to find a good one in our own backyard.” 

Following the May 5 preview, the run continues for two weekends, Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m., with Sunday Matinees at 2 p.m. General admission tickets are $18, discounted to $12 for students and seniors. Due to the language and themes, parental guidance is recommended for children. A group rate is available when ordered online.

There will be a Talk Back with the playwright and cast following the first Sunday Matinee on May 8, when cast and crew answer questions from the audience. Tickets are available online at BelfastMaskers.com or at the theater, one hour before show time.