MONMOUTH — Bask in the warmth and enchantment of Italy without leaving Maine during Theater at Monmouth’s production of “Enchanted April.” Elizabeth Von Arnim’s resplendent 1920s novel comes to life on stage in this Tony Award-nominated play by Matthew Barber. “Enchanted April” runs at 7:30 p.m. from Thursday, July 19, throughout the season, including matinee and evening performances on both weekdays and weekends.

Feeling lost in the shadows of marriage and post-WWI society, the enticement of an enchanting Italian holiday captivates the hearts of two British housewives on a drizzly London afternoon in 1922, and fills their imaginations with wisteria and sunshine. By the time they arrive at their Mediterranean villa, an aging matron and a young socialite have joined their quest for something more. The gardens, sea, cinnamon and pasta are just the beginning of the transformation they discover.

Director Kate Bergstrom was drawn to “Enchanted April” because of its focus on “an unlikely group of women who are thrown together and learn to support one another in an unbearable time by calling on the enchantment within.” While this is a play featuring characters with marital issues and those in search of a grand romance, it is most importantly about the power of women bonding and growing together.

“Enchanted April” features James Noel Hoban as Mellersh; Janis Stevens as Mrs. Graves; KP Powell as Anthony Wilding; Ryan Broussard as Frederick; Katie Croyle as Lady Caroline; Amber McNew as Lotty; Bibi Mama as Rose; and Maureen Butler as Costanza. Set design by Brittany Vasta, costume design by Elizabeth Rocha, lighting design by Jennifer Fok, and sound design by Rew Tippin.

Performance calendar: Opening Friday, July 20, at 7:30 p.m.; additional performance dates are July 19, 28, Aug. 8, 11, 16, at 7:30 p.m.; and July 29, Aug. 1, 14, at 1 p.m. On July 12 at 7 p.m. a post-show discussion will follow the performance.

TAM season passes offer up to 25 percent off the single ticket price and exclusive benefits such as priority seating and free ticket exchanges. Gold, Flex, General or Senior Passes are available for purchase. Single tickets for the summer repertory and fall show are $34 for adults, $29 for senior citizens and $20 for students (18 and under). Groups of 10 or more can enjoy TAM shows at up to a 22 percent discount. Groups may also schedule pre- or post-show discussions with tours of historic Cumston Hall. Educators receive 20 percent off the single ticket price with a photo ID. For patrons under 30, twenty $10 Rush Tickets are accessible at each performance in the season when available. 

For calendar and reservations, please contact the TAM Box Office at 207-933-9999 or visit www.theateratmonmouth.org.