GORHAM, Maine — Student performers at the University of Southern Maine are putting on a show they hope will spark change.
The USM Theatre Department and Osher School of Music are teaming up to put on "The Prom," a Broadway musical comedy about finding acceptance.
This Saturday, a VIP showing of the performance aims to raise money for OUT Maine. The Rockland-based organization works to create a welcoming and affirming community for young LGBTQ+ Mainers in rural parts of the state.
Those starring in the show, including sophomore musical theatre major Karoline Brechter, say its message is more important than ever.
"It's very touching to be able tell a story that maybe is going to push somebody in the direction of believing in themselves and who they are and sharing that with the world," Brechter told NEWS CENTER Maine.
This is the first time "The Prom" has been performed in Maine. Director Danny Hutchins said its themes surrounding LGBTQ+ acceptance resonate with many of the actors involved.
"To be able to so-closely mirror the message of the show in our Maine community and support an organization that is doing the real hard work that this show is trying to uplift in a story is something that we're very excited to be able to support," Hutchins said.
There are performance of "The Prom" scheduled Thursday through Sunday on USM's Gorham Campus. Tickets to some shows are as little as $10. You can learn more at the theatre department's box office website.