In quantum physics, there is a “many worlds” theory. It revolves around the idea that an infinite amount of universes exist and are created through the choices we make. Say you had waffles for breakfast. Now, a universe has been created where you decided to have pancakes. Every decision a person makes or will ever make — or never made — creates an ever expanding amount of possibilities.
That is the premise of “Constellations,” presented by Southeast Texas Stages through Nov. 9. It tells the story of Marianne and Roland, following their journey through different parallel realities. The characters are played by four ensembles, including a female version of Roland and Deaf versions of both characters.
Ensemble A is played by Luke Bounds and Olivia Hayes, the youngest seeming couple. Ensemble B is played by Brandon Greer and Bryleigh Myers, who seemed more experienced in dating. Andrew Ramirez and Allie Bordages are ensemble C, a Deaf couple. Ensemble D is played by Renée Celeste and Julia Rodriguez, a lesbian couple (Celeste’s Roland is now Rachel).
Marianne is a string theorist working in physics while Roland is a beekeeper. Their relationship goes through many obstacles, each playing out differently in the multiple universes.
The cast members bring their own unique acting styles, which means each Roland and Marianne is unique.
For example, when Ramirez and Bordages are onstage, screens are placed on either side of the stage to allow the audience to read ASL translations. It is a clever touch, and SETXS should be commended for increasing Deaf representation, but the characters are well developed so we are able to follow without the translations.
The set is minimal which allows the Mariannes and Rolands — or Rachel — to take center stage. It feels like the audience is being pulled into the vast regions of space, watching these characters fall in love over and over again as if looking into multiple bubbles.
Director John Manfredi keeps the story moving as the ensembles switching back and forth, with emotional jabs hitting when they are least expected.
For all its multiversal complexity, “Constellations,” is ultimately about humanity and the different paths a single choice can lead to. Nick Payne’s play argues that Marianne and Roland will find each other in any universe, and in every universe, they keep choosing to love each other.
Showtimes continue Oct. 31, Nov. 1, 2, 8 and 9 at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee performance Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. Southeast Texas Stages is located at 4155 Laurel Ave. in Beaumont. For tickets, visit setxs.org.