Constellations is the story of Marianne and Roland, played by Kaylah Crosby (Pro-Am) and Christian Davis Aldridge (Barefoot in the Park), across multiple universes. In the first universe, they meet at a BBQ while Roland is in a relationship, so they don’t connect. In another one, they are both single and they get together. Then, in one world, Marianne sleeps with another man. In an alternate world, Roland is the unfaithful one. The play goes on like this exploring the infinite possibilities of their relationship. It’s just like the improvisational game “Change” where whenever a bell is rung, the actor has to change their last line of dialog, which in turn can change the entire scene. As the options present themselves, the audience can’t help but hope for best possible outcome.

There are many big themes that emerge and big questions to ponder in this play by Nick Payne.  Does free will exist? Or, are we controlled by fate?  Do our choices matter in relationships, or will most things end up the same no matter what we do? Can a relationship survive infidelity? Can it survive a life threatening illness?

At 80 minutes, it would be nice to have an intermission to digest this complex play. There are plenty of scene changes where it could be easily added.  Join the Pro-Intermission movement here. 

The actors perform fantastically.  They expertly navigate multiple universes. With just a slight change of tone and a new word or two, they manage to create a completely different feeling for each world. Sometimes they repeat a lot more words than is necessary. The set is also unique. It looks like constellations with all the handing lightbulbs.  The entire production is world class.

See the program here. 

Cost of a ticket: $52

PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Worth It

Rating Scale: Exceptional > Good Value > Discounted > Go for Free > Don’t Bother

Get tickets now for Constellations through October 19th at the Athenaeum Theatre!

Quinn Delaney