The Penobscot Theatre Company (PTC) has partnered with Maine Seacoast Mission to stage “Matinicus: A Lighthouse Play” on three of Maine’s remote, unbridged islands this July. The theatre company will travel aboard the Misson’s 74-foot Sunbeam to the islands during a trip from July 21 to July 24. Performances will occur on Great Cranberry Isle on July 21, Isle au Haut on July 22, and Matinicus on July 23. This tour is supported by a grant from the Margaret E. Burnham Foundation and Individual Donors. 

Written by Jenny Connell Davis, Matinicus tells the true story of the distinctive Maine historical figure Abbie Burgess who as a young woman single-handedly manned a lighthouse on Matinicus Rock in 1856. During one particularly harsh winter when Burgess operated the lighthouse, a large storm overtook it. Her story and impact on the small, two- by six-mile island is especially significant to residents of all Maine’s remote, unbridged islands, and is a testament to the grit and resilience of those who choose to live there. 

Mission staff provide health, educational, and community building services to residents of all fifteen of Maine’s unbridged islands with a year-round population. As a part of that work, Sunbeam makes routine visits to some of these islands throughout the year. 

“The significance of Abbie Burgess in the history of Maine island life is poignant and inspiring," said Mission President John Zavodny. "The Mission is honored to bring our community partner Penobscot Theatre Company’s stage production of the play to its namesake island.” 

During the original showing of the play, the Mission was PTC’s Community Nonprofit Partner, and shared information on both the Mission’s work on outer islands, as well as the history of Matinicus Island. Also, after a matinee performance, the Mission’s Director of Island Services Douglas Cornman and Matinicus’ First Assessor Laurie Webber did a question and answer, “talk-back” session about what life is like on Maine’s most remote island.

Rooted in a history of compassionate service and mutual trust, Maine Seacoast Mission seeks to strengthen coastal and island communities by educating youth, supporting families, and promoting good health. For more information, please visit https://seacoastmission.org/ 

Penobscot Theatre Company creates extraordinary theatrical experiences that engage and inspire our community, fostering a better quality of life in the heart of Maine. For more information, please visit https://www.penobscottheatre.org/