The infinite possibilities of love, I think we’ve all thought from time to time, what could have happened in a parallel universe, if things were slightly different. Constellations does this beautifully, set on a simple black stage with white balloons hanging above, no props, no faff. Just the characters Marianne and Roland, new found love starts to blossom, and also doesn’t
Sheila Atim and Ivanno Jeremiah playing the young black couple, meeting at a barbecue and then sharing their lives and thoughts in repeated scenes through the multiverse. The lighting suddenly changes and so do their demeanours; slightly, then drastically. Energy changes at light-speed, which I love, the time flies by as I try and stitch the outcomes I hope work together. Atim, holds attention easily; striking and graceful, effortlessly becoming the many versions of Marianne. Jeremiah creates slightly different versions of Roland so very well. Director Michael Longhurst has excelled in getting the best from Atim and Jeremiah.
I commend Sheila Atim and Ivanno Jeremiah, it’s not an easy feat to be chopping and changing scenes, and emotions so quickly, but this is a real testament to both of them to be so engaging while doing it.
The story goes on, exploring heartbreak and polarising views on death, which is thought-provoking and emotional. Many excruciatingly awkward scenes of bumping into an ex are played out perfectly. Nods to black culture in England were expertly put in. No doubt it will be interesting to see the different renditions of the play with actors at different stages in life, (also including an inter-cultural gay couple) at the Vaudeville Theatre over the coming months, expanding on Nick Payne’s impressive play, making it well represented for today’s society.
I commend both Atim and Jeremiah, it’s not an easy feat to be chopping and changing scenes, and emotions so quickly, but this is a real testament to both of them to be so engaging while doing it. Constellations is relatable and realistic amongst the science-fiction setting. Who knows, we could all be living different lives in parallel universes!
