Not Your Typical Love Story

When two people meet, who knows what can happen? But when multiple universes are involved, it really goes every which way possible.

Robert Ball directs UIW’s Constellations by Nick Payne; a two-character drama, featuring UIW student performers Brandon Bulls and Megan McHugh. The play first premiered on January 19, 2012 in London, England and since then has been rewritten. When it was originally staged, it was in a small space in the Royal Court Theatre. There was no guarantee that it would come such a long way and to the Big Apple especially.

Moving to Broadway was a big move, specifically with the parts being casted to big names like Jake Gyllenhaal and Ruth Wilson. However, this rendition takes place in Los Angeles, where a relationship blooms between Roland (Mr. Bulls), a beekeeper, and Marianne (Ms. McHugh), a Cambridge University academic who specializes in “theoretical early universe cosmology.” That’s a mouthful! Although, Marianne’s specialization is complicated, it’s not hard to understand that this isn’t your typical love story.

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The playwright has structured the play using the idea of multiple universes in nonlinear time, so, Marianne and Roland’s relationship experiences every alternative that might have been. “We are used to the notion of the first time people meet and in this version of this love story it goes a lot of different ways” Dr. Ball explains. Its boy meets girl, girl meets boy, tragedy strikes boy (or girl), girl (or boy) loses boy (or girl); the possibilities are endless.

In this 70-minute production, only two performers are involved so the actors are required to have a different skill set to be able to be on stage for a long period. “They were the most skilled, highly professional actors that were available.” Dr. Ball said. It is no surprise that Ms. McHugh and Mr. Bulls are more than capable in executing their role’s demands.

They have been featured in many UIW productions in the past and rightfully so. Sadly, this is their last semester on the UIW stage, both are pursuing to further their careers in theater arts. Dr. Ball is also taking his last steps in the UIW theater, and Megan McHugh had some heartfelt words to say about that. “I think Robert is a phenomenal director and I wanted at least one last time to work with him before we both headed off. All three of us are kind of on our way out so it’s kind of a bitter sweet thing.” The subject matter of the play turns into some heavy scenarios, which can cause an emotional trigger for some individuals but the overall message can be an eye opening experience that sources into reevaluating your relationships with the people in your life.

“My goal in telling this story, is for people to engage it and for the audience to have an exciting and in some way fun as they engage it and if that causes them to have a conversation, especially with someone they care about, then I’m happy.” Dr. Ball said. Time is a major component of the play whether it be because the lack or misuse of it. “You should value your time with people while they are there. Not take advantage or take for granted the time you have with someone especially someone that you love.” Ms. McHugh said. Although, time is a breaker of many hearts, “love transcends time and space.” (Dr. Ball) and that’s the template for Constellations.

Constellations is coming to UIW Theaters February 22nd at 8pm in the Cheever Theater. UIW students, faculty, and staff can attend free of charge by presenting their valid ID, however, seating is limited so reserve your seats now at (210)829-3800 or (210) 829-3810 during regular business hours.