“Almost, Maine”: Ms. Dodge making magic
By James Burkhalter
Picture of Ms. Dodge and the cast of “Almost, Maine” by James Burkhalter
“Almost, Maine” is a rom-com encompassing every facet of love: young love, lost love and heartbreak. Both nights of the show lead the audience through a jolting range of emotions, laughing so hard that the sound filled the room and later trying to hide their teary eyes. Owasso’s production of “Almost, Maine” ended on December 2nd, marking the end of Theatre’s 2023 productions and some student’s final performances in Owasso. Many tears were shed for this show, both blissful and sorrowful, and all can be attributed to the director, Ms. Allison Dodge.
Ms. Dodge started working at Owasso High School in 2021 as a Speech and Debate teacher. Dodge also teaches the Stagecraft class and built her first set for Owasso’s production of “Honk!” in 2022. When Mr. Ryan King, Owasso’s theater teacher, got married last school year, he realized that he would not be able to direct the winter play that season, so he asked Ms. Dodge. Ms. Dodge had already directed plays previously and majored in theater in college. Mr. King’s decision led to “A Seussified Christmas Carol,” Owasso’s 2022 winter production, being directed by Ms. Dodge. This production set the precedent that she will direct every future winter play. Owasso’s winter plays have given room for Ms. Dodge’s passion for direction to shine.
“I think the director’s job…is to have a concept and bring that concept to life,” Dodge says.
As a teacher at OHS, Ms Dodge has consistently put thorough effort into the projects she oversees. For the past two years, Dodge has excelled in three different fields back to back. In Speech and Debate, Dodge has many students succeeding in their given categories and bringing back awards. Dodge has also received many awards for set design for both musicals in 2022 and 2023 while also receiving high accolades for Owasso’s production of “12 Angry Jurors.” Immediately after those victories, she proceeded to direct well-received plays in the winter. Dodge’s excellent track record in these many different areas all rely on her deep love for art.
“I think the best thing about theater…is that it is all art in one!” Dodge exclaimed.
Dodge’s love for art was the catalyst for all of the tears at “Almost, Maine.” The audience could feel the concept that Dodge brought to life, and it moved them. The cast and crew followed her direction and could feel the passion as they did their jobs. Dodge is doing something that many directors and teachers aspire to do: pouring her heart into her craft and making magic.
“Ultimately, [we] have one goal which is…to give [a] story to an audience and make them have an experience that they remember; I think that that is magical,” beamed Dodge.
“Almost, Maine” now over, means that Dodge will be able to concentrate more on Speech and Debate as she starts to build the set for Owasso’s musical, “Little Shop of Horrors.” Both of these are sure to receive more awards and high accolades as all of her ventures have before. Her love for art will now be felt in these two projects until next year’s winter play, where she will do it all again.