The director of Johnson Hall Opera House shares some of his favorite spots in the historic Kennebec River town.
Ray Routhier
Staff Writer
Ray Routhier has written about pop culture, movies, TV, music and lifestyle trends for the Portland Press Herald since 1993. He is continually fascinated with stories that show the unique character of Maine’s people and places. He’s written about why so many businesses use the made-up word “Mainely” in their names, how you can trace Portland’s history through its various smells and why Mainers lament the loss of Portland-made B&M baked beans. He’s interviewed a wide variety of filmmakers, actors, musicians and authors, including Patrick Dempsey, Tony Shalhoub, Richard Russo, Tess Gerritsen, Tony Bennett, Anna Kendrick, and Stephen King. His passions, besides writing, include baseball history, old movies and “Jeopardy!” A native of Manchester, New Hampshire, he graduated with a degree in political science from the University of New Hampshire. He lives in South Portland with his wife and two children.
19 big concerts across Maine to put on your calendar now
There are pop, rock and country shows all over the state, from Portland to Bangor, now through Labor Day weekend.
ScreenX arrives at Westbrook’s Apple Cinemas. What is it?
The technology, which Apple began using in Maine last fall, allows certain movies to be shown on the theater’s side walls, as well as the screen, for an immersive experience.
Barry Manilow postponing Portland show
The pop singer had been scheduled to play Cross Insurance Arena on April 19.
Nordica movie theater in Freeport to reopen this year
The owners of the Nickelodeon Cinemas in Portland have leased the former Nordica Theatre in Freeport Village Station.
Portland comic arts festival draws on the indie scene
Comic Arts Maine Portland, which began in 2025, will feature exhibitors, workshops and panels with comics creators on Saturday.
Portland teacher announced as new Maine poet laureate
Dawn Potter, of Portland, was named Friday as the seventh person to fill the role, which was created in 1995.
Why a Portland nonprofit might cancel plans to build an $18M arts center
The Hill Arts says $7 million must be raised this year for its planned 400-seat venue on Munjoy Hill or the project will die.
Comedian John Mulaney to play Bangor in November
The SNL alum will also perform in Hampton and Gilford, New Hampshire, on his 2026 tour.
Tracy Kidder, Pulitzer-winning author who shared his work with Maine neighbors, dies at 80
Kidder, who died Tuesday in Boston, had a summer home in South Bristol and often did readings and events in Maine.