Emerald Coast Theatre Company, a not-for profit professional theater company in Northwest Florida, will perform John Cariani’s popular romantic comedy, ‘Almost, Maine,’ every weekend in February. In conjunction with the show, a pop-up art gallery will display works of art around the theme of Love.

The play will be held at The Market Shops, located at the entrance to the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. The performance dates are February 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, and 26-28. Friday and Saturday show times are 7:30 p.m. and Sundays are at 2 p.m.

“It is the season of love and what better way to celebrate than to take your love to a romantic comedy.” said Nathanael Fisher, producing artistic director of the theatre company.

“This charming play is like a warm mug of cocoa on a cold day. It reflects the joys and challenges of love in all its beauty,” said Fisher.

This sweet, romantic comedy takes place on a cold winter night in the mythical town of Almost, Maine. It is comprised of nine vignettes, which share the stories of its residents falling in and out of love in unexpected and entertaining ways.

Cast members include Panama City favorites Justin Mclendon and Douglas Gilliland and Santa Rosa Beach stage veterans Rachel Lewis and Laura Holloway. The play is rated PG-13 for mature themes. Ticket prices are $23 per adult, $18 for seniors and $15 for students. The company offers a 10 percent military discount.

“’Almost, Maine’ is a higher-concept and more clever version of Hollywood hits like ‘Love Actually’ and ‘Valentine’s Day’,” said New York Times columnist Catherine Rampell.

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In conjunction with the play, 21 artists will display 41 works of art in a pop-up art gallery at the same location.

The works of art are all based around the them of Love.

Mixed media, photography, illustration, acrylic, watercolor and glass works by local artists will be on display and for sale prior to each performance, and extended gallery hours are set for Saturdays, noon to 5 p.m.  The gallery is open to the public.

Proceeds from art sales benefit the theatre company’s continued dedication to performing arts education in Northwest Florida schools.

Pop-up galleries have been gaining notoriety around the world as empty business space is transformed into temporary art space for both emerging artists and those of worthy fame to share their passion with a greater audience.

For more info about the performance, visit Emerald Coast Theatre Company or call 850-687-1637.

To learn more about the pop-up art gallery, email [email protected] or call Lori Drew at 850-585-7689.