Jupiter, Florida: The Burt Reynolds Institute Presents "Almost, Maine" a Romantic Comedy by John Cariani

Why is it that people tend to ignore the treasurers hidden in plain sight in their home town? I've been asking myself that question ever since I discovered the Burt Reynolds and Friends Museum just ten minutes from my home. South Florida has been my home for nearly twenty years and, yet, I never knew the museum existed.

Partially hidden by the Indiantown Road expansion bridge, the museum, which is also home to the Burt Reynolds Institute for Film and Theatre, is a shining star in the crown of Jupiter, Florida. Behind the big glass double doors, a world of Hollywood and sports memorabilia awaits to surprise and excite those lucky enough to enter. From the surrey used in "Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" to the director's chair made from hockey sticks for "Mystery, Alaska," to the hundreds of photographs signed by celebrity friends, the museum is a delight for the senses.

If you thought Burt Reynolds was merely a megastar, you are wrong. The wall of glass behind which his many awards are showcased is a testament to his many charitable and cultural contributions. Display cases hold thousands of items gifted to him and collected by him over some fifty years in the entertainment business. A single day's visit would not be enough to see it all.

Not willing to rest on his laurels, Mr. Reynolds recently began teaching a class of talented professionals the finer points of acting for both film and theater. The Under the Bridge Players, as they are known, will take to the stage next week in John Cariani's widely praised play, Almost Maine, an hysterically funny look at love in a small, mythical town in far northern Maine. On a cold, clear, moonless evening, the residents of Almost find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. With the northern lights hovering in the star-filled sky, hearts are broken and mended over and over again.

The play opens Wednesday, April 28th, at 8 pm, and runs through Sunday, May 2nd, with a final matinee performance at 2 pm. Tickets are $25/each. Group rates are available. I had the privilege of meeting the beautiful and talented, Suzanne Niedland, who will be making her local directorial debut with this production. Her enthusiasm is infectious and left me feeling light headed with anticipation. "The play is amazing," Ms. Niedland effused during our interview. "It is so much fun, and I am thrilled at the opportunity to direct Burt Reynolds' Master Actors in this production."

Niedland's excitement is impossible to resist. My tickets are for Friday evening. If you live in the Jupiter, Florida area, I hope you will discover for yourself this treasure that is known as The Burt Reynolds and Friends Museum.