Once upon a time, many years ago, in the far off land of “Sarah’s Scoops,” I had a chance encounter with Aurelien Recoing at a small picnic table. I was sneaking a nice blueberry something-or-other on a cone, just on my way home from an out of town job.

I said “hello” and the Recoings replied with distinctly non-Maine voices which my poorly tuned ear detected as French. In my overly inquisitive usual way I asked if they were visiting on holiday. “Well,” said the papa, “No, we are living here.”

“Oh,” said I, extracting both feet from my mouth. “Sorry.” I had been to Paris! I should have known better.

At that moment I had no idea who I had chatted up. How could I? I’d only been to Paris once. Everyone seemed to be OK with my screw-up and I was not abruptly dismissed, although the children did appear puzzled by a total stranger wandering about their table.

Dad looked a bit amused as I tried to regroup and continue my ill-fated introduction. “How do you like it here so far?” I offered.

I hoped to have a nice conversation but I will admit that Aurelien’s accented voice was not registering well for me. To this day I apologize for mispronouncing his name. My high school Latin and college German were no help at all. So I asked if Aurelien would write down his name in my handy dandy memo pad which I carry always. That helped a little. At least I could do a google search when I got home.

Yikes! If I had explored a bit more when in Paris I would have recognized the Recoing name and his (and his family’s) many accomplishments. A little more impressive background than my small part in an “As You like It” high school play. This, ladies and gentlemen, is not your average one-act play. Mr. Recoing and his French family are legendary artists.

At the end of our ice creams at Sarah’s Scoop’s, I offered to show him around the region sometime and he tentatively accepted. We had a fun ride although I still listened carefully.

Such was not the case during Aurelien’s recent visit to the Opera House and the reading of “The Little Prince.” He and his daughter Bea provided an amazing and heartfelt experience. I had never seen anything quite like it. No Celtic rock. No Texas troubadours. No Mitchell picture show. This was exceptionally intimate, moving and deeply felt theatre of a most personal nature. For two hours, Aurelien and his daughter moved, spoke and paused within a minimally lit setting focused by Kevin Kiley from his upper perch.

When you have a moment, please try your own google search for Aurelien Recoing, and then go to Paris where you can see first hand more of his great work! It’s hard to imagine that one person could find the time. A bientot, Aurelien. May the force be with you, and with me!