Constellations

This play concerned the complex and romantic relationship between two characters, Marianne a quantum physicist and Roland a bee keeper. What was unusual was the way the play explored the possibilities of never-ending realities and demonstrated how the sudden and smallest shift in choices could alter the way a relationship evolved. Within this context, the themes of love, free will and of mortality were all developed. The audience at first was - or I was- a bit confused as the same scene was often repeated with slightly different tone or words or decisions. Both characters delivered their lines without hesitation demonstrating a tremendous capacity for not only remembering them but also delivering different emphases. Claire Withnell as Marianne demonstrated the character’s intelligence and wit as she animadverted on the endless possibilities of the universe. John Knox as Roland was often bemused and taken aback- an ordinary man, bee keeper – the imagery of which was not lost as he would have known about the organised life of bee society – but a perfect foil to Marianne. His down to earth comments and responses elicited humour too. Their relation blossomed as did the possibilities and vagaries of their life. Their handling of illness was careful and without sentimentality taking their audience with them. Making the unfolding of events all the more telling was the set, sloped and bare, a blank canvas on which to set their relationship and judiciously lit. And behind it all and within it, was musician Roddy Bain who composed the accompaniments, ably played to suit the moods throughout the play and became so much part of it. The production and direction of what to me was fascinating drama were well conceived and executed and left this observer amazed. Congratulation on a fine dramatic performance.

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