Transporting us to a galaxy of infinite possibilities, Queensland Theatre’s ‘Constellations’ is quite literally out of this world.
A conventional love story that is extremely unconventional in delivery, this busy two-hander intertwines real life and fantasy in a heartbreaking and fascinating exploration of existence. Starring television star and Logie award nominee, Jessica Tovey (as Marianne) and Matilda award recipient, Lucas Stibbard (as Roland), the pair keeps the audience on edge as we jump through dimensions and into alternate realities.
Although the plot is scattered, ‘Constellations’ is one of those plays where at first you try to understand everything and then by then end, it all comes together and makes sense. Played out on a space-time grid, with varying heights, the actors move across the construction effortlessly and really communicate different parts and places of the storyline with ease.
The simplistic set design means the show’s success and pace relies heavily on the actors – and boy does the production deliver across all facets.
‘Constellations’ is tight, captivating and beats along like the ticking of time itself. This really is a masterclass in direction and acting, and a true tip of the hat moment to director, Kat Henry. The production is filled with zest and courage.
The production invites audiences to imagine the impossible and dream about those ‘what if’ moments, while simultaneously changing perceptions of reality. What if you had said no, instead of yes? ‘Constellations’ encourages you to think outside the societal norm and consider every path you could have walked down.
British playwright, Nick Payne, has captured the heart of humanity and left it to the mercy of infinite universes. This is a truly remarkable production that can be played multiple ways, but can still convey the idea that everything that can happen does happen.
In a quantum universe, every choice you’ve ever and never made exists. One thing is absolute though. To miss seeing ‘Constellations’, may mean you miss out on witnessing one of the best shows Brisbane has to offer.
