Constellations

Timeless

Constellations

by Nick Payne

Putney Theatre Company at the Putney Arts Theatre until 27^th September

Review by Heather Moulson

Constellations is a promising title and, entering the auditorium one is struck by a set lit with hushed blue lighting that is simple but effective. It is a space that could say everything, and it does.

Nick Payne’s two hander, originally produced at the Royal Court Theatre in 2012, tells of a romance between a cosmologist and a beekeeper, but it is a romance that takes place in many parallel forms and differing directions, and it is intense and funny and vibrant. In Rob Wallis’s intelligently directed production, all its moods and its aching tenderness are flawlessly covered. A thoughtful piece on the possibility of multiple realities against the backdrop of a genuine love story, it is a multiverse giving myriad choices, all set within a very believable relationship.

George Nettleton plays Roland, who takes Marianne’s approaches full-on creating a multitude of outcomes. Playing Marianne, Clare McKervey has a balanced measure of nervous energy to counter Nettleton’s seemingly grounded exterior. In an intense seventy-five minutes of twists and turns, the interaction between the two actors is concentrated and absorbing. Nettleton has great versatility as he veers being being vulnerable then being violent. McKervey matches his skills through every alternative and replayed scene. With their natural stage presence, both actors are highly watchable as each dimension unravels.

On every parallel we are taken to, there emerges a sad ending, but it is a worthwhile journey. Nevertheless, some confrontations and scenes are longer than others, such that some are a welcome repeat, some aren’t. There is a truly touching sign-language moment, and overall it is a gripping love story that is skilfully defined by the two actors.

Rich Evans created the thought-provoking set and lighting design, and the haunting sound was devised by Barney Hart Dyke. I look forward to seeing more of his Rob Wallis’s searching and scintillating directing work in the future, for this is an impressive piece of theatre.

The Putney Theatre Company is worth looking out for at this quality venue. Please, Putney, hurry back with your next production.

Heather Moulson, September 2025

Photography courtesy of PTC