The Science Behind "Constellations" 101
Although there is no need to understand the science behind Constellations in order to enjoy the show, we thought we would entertain the idea and act like scientists for the day!
Constellations, by Nick Payne, explores the possibility of a love story in multiple dimensions. He does this by referencing string theory and multiverses. If you're anything like us, you may be completely lost on what those terms mean. So after many Google searches and countless YouTube videos, we have broken them down for you.
"String theory uses a model of one-dimensional strings in place of the particles of quantum physics. These strings, the size of the Planck length (i.e. 10-35 m) vibrate at specific resonant frequencies. The formulas that result from string theory predict more than four dimensions. In addition to the strings, string theory contains another type of fundamental object called a brane, which can have many more dimensions (multiverses)." -ThoughtCo
Still a bit confused? So were we. So here are some short and fun YouTube videos that helped us grasp the idea of string theory and multiverses.
Now when you go and see Constellations, you'll know the science behind the story. However, don't worry, even if you still aren't sure what string theory is or what multiverses are, you will still be able to fully enjoy the show!
More about Constellations:
Reviews of "Constellations"
"In the hands of such capable actors, the play dances through its complex premise with energy and purpose. For a play based on theoretical physics, Constellations twinkles with romance. ...
Dana Green's Inspiration for Marianne in "Constellations"
Becoming a theoretical physicist can be a daunting task. Here's a look at some of the resources Dana Green is using to prepare for her role in Constellations.
Constellations Team Visits an Apiary
The cast and members of the Constellations creative team took advantage of some summer weather to take a research field trip to a local apiary and learned about beekeeping from Tim Wessels of Bridgetown Bees.
Post Show Talkback with Beekeeper + Physicist
Hear from two experts that advised the Constellations cast and creative team. Sunday June 4th following the matinee.
Resource Guide: The World of the Play
Explore the glossary and references in Nick Payne's Constellations.
Resource Guide: Language of the Play
Explore the accents and languages used onstage in Constellations.
"Constellations" Cast and Creative Team
Learn about Silas Weir Mitchell (Monroe in Grimm) and Dana Green (last seen at The Armory in Great Expectations) along with the out-of-this-world crew behind Constellations.
Cosmic Love
For millennia, storytellers the world over have riffed on the idea that true love might be “written in the stars.” Literary Manager, Benjamin Fainstein on love in the cosmic world.
Current & Upcoming
Art Exhibit: ¡Soy Yo! by Mika Martinez
¡Soy Yo!, is a multi-media project, created by Mika Martinez, that examines and celebrates Latinx identity featuring more than 50 portraits of the Hispanic/Latino community in Portland.
Piano Bar with Courtney Freed and David Saffert
Join us for this monthly event with local songstress Courtney Freed and Portland-based pianist David Saffert as they host a good old-fashioned PIANO BAR.
Improvisation Classes for Beginners
Whether you're looking to get more confident in social situations, think quicker on your feet, or get in touch with your imaginative side, these "one-off" improv classes will set you on the path to success!
Nassim
From Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour (creator of the Off-Broadway smash hit White Rabbit, Red Rabbit) comes an audacious new theatrical experiment, presented in collaboration with Boom Arts. Each night, a new, unrehearsed local performer joins the playwright on stage, while the script waits, unseen, in a sealed box... Touchingly autobiographical yet powerfully universal, NASSIM is a striking theatrical demonstration of how language can both divide and unite us.
Art Exhibit: Garam Garam Chai by Yusra Siddiqui
Portland Center Stage will host Garam Garam Chai, an art exhibit by Portland-based multidisciplinary artist Yusra Siddiqui, featuring a series of hand-sewn teabag printmaking pieces that serve as a contemplation of the communal tea times shared between Desi and British culture.
Coriolanus
Shakespeare’s tragedy about the war hero Coriolanus and the fight between the elite and the deprived masses will be fueled by a dynamic female and non-binary ensemble with a muscular, movement-focused staging.
Portland Center Stage is committed to identifying & interrupting instances of racism & all forms of oppression, through the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, & accessibility (IDEA).
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