Audiences are invited to ponder love, choice and the infinite possibilities of human connection as Hilo Community Players presents “Constellations,” an Olivier Award–winning play by British playwright Nick Payne, opening just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Running this Friday through Feb. 8 at the Keawe Theater, “Constellations” is a smart, intimate two-person play that blends big ideas — including quantum multiverse theory — with deeply personal storytelling. The result is a romantic, often funny and ultimately moving exploration of how small choices can radically alter the course of a relationship.
The play centers on Roland, a beekeeper, and Marianne, a quantum physicist, whose relationship is shown across multiple parallel realities. In each version of events, subtle shifts in timing, tone or decision lead to different outcomes, allowing audiences to witness the many ways love might begin, falter, deepen or end.
Directed by Rachel Klein, the production stars two well-known local performers: Danny Randerson as Roland and Molly McGivern as Marianne. With only two actors onstage, the play relies on precise performances and emotional nuance, creating an experience that is both intellectually engaging and quietly powerful.
Randerson, a Hilo-based actor with a master of fine arts in acting from the University of Hawaii, has appeared in recent musical theater productions including “Avenue Q,” “Shrek” and “The Wizard of Oz” at Hilo Palace Theater. His training spans classical and contemporary theater.
McGivern brings extensive stage and screen experience to the role of Marianne. Her stage credits include leading roles in “Evita,” “The Sound of Music” and “Steel Magnolias,” while her screen work includes appearances on “Lost” and the most recent Indiana Jones film. Local audiences may also recognize her from Hilo Community Players’ recent production of “The Rocky Horror Show,” where she appeared as Dr. Scott.
Performances take place at the air-conditioned Keawe Theater, located at 280 Keawe St. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. Tickets are $20 in advance, available online at hiloplayers.org, with prices increasing by $5 at the door.
For tickets and additional information, visit www.hiloplayers.org.