Athenaeum Center Theatre Presents Nick Payne’s Award-Winning Drama Constellations (Chicago, IL) – Love, fate, and the infinite possibilities of the universe will collide on stage this fall as the Athenaeum Center for Thought and Culture presents Constellations, Nick Payne’s award-winning play. The production runs September 12 through October 19, 2025, in the intimate Studio A space, under the direction of J.R. Sullivan.
The play follows Marianne, a theoretical physicist, and Roland, a beekeeper, whose relationship unfolds across multiple parallel universes. Each scene repeats with subtle — or sometimes dramatic — changes, showing how a single choice or phrase can alter the trajectory of a life. Drawing inspiration from quantum mechanics and string theory, Constellations examines questions of fate, free will, and the fragile nature of human connection.
Kaylah Crosby stars as Marianne, with Christian Davis Aldridge as Roland. Understudies May Heinecke and Brian Wiegand round out the cast. The creative team includes scenic designers Olivia Volk and Skokie Tseumah, costume designer Clara Schmidt, lighting designer Aria Morris, and sound designer Dylan Kinter.
Previews run September 12–14, with opening night set for Thursday, September 18. Performances will be held Thursdays through Sundays, with select matinees, through October 19. The show is recommended for audiences 18 and older, and doors open 30 minutes before curtain.
The production is part of the Athenaeum Center’s Entangled Beauty series, which explores the intersections of art, science, and complexity. The theater will pair the play with public discussions on science and beauty, inviting audiences to consider humanity’s place in the cosmos.
Constellations also launches the Athenaeum’s 2025–2026 theatrical season, The Search for Meaning, which features works probing themes of self-discovery, morality, and transcendence.
Tickets are available on their website: https://
Athenaeum Center Theatre Presents Nick Payne’s Award-Winning Drama Constellations
