Fordham Theatre alumni returned to the stage for “Constellations” on Nov. 21 at Caveat Theater on Clinton Street. The cozy space buzzed with excitement before the show as Milagros Luis, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ’25, and Fabiola Santiago-Ruiz, FCLC ’25, greeted guests and friends. The open seating design allowed the audience to sit back, relax and interact with strangers at tables and couches. The room hushed as the show’s two stars took the stage.  

“Constellations” by Nick Payne was performed by Fordham students during the fall 2024 season as a studio show. Its intricate and charming plot follows Ronald, a beekeeper, and Marianne, an astrophysicist, as they navigate their romantic relationship. The play explores the idea of the multiverse by repeating scenes but with different reactions from the actors.

The show’s two stars — Marco Lizarraga, FCLC ’25, and Alexa Smith, FCLC ’25 — both performed in the fall 2024 studio show. At Caveat, they held the audience’s attention for the entirety of the 85-minute, non-intermission performance. The cast’s experience and familiarity with one another allowed the lines and movement to flow smoothly. At times, both actors would engage with the audience, making them hold props or ad-lib. By doing so, the viewers felt like they were part of the production.

The play explores the idea of the multiverse by repeating scenes but with different reactions from the actors.

Luis directed the studio show on campus in 2024, and revived it for the latest production at Caveat. 

“Fordham was my first step into it, and now this is my second, and I hope to have a third,” Luis said.

Luis emphasized that Fordham had given her baby steps into directing and the first real feel of shaping art, and pushing her limits. This new production allowed her to put her training into action while directing on a real performance stage. While the third step remains unknown, she hopes to continue building on the foundation she established at Fordham to carve out a name for herself within the industry.

When switching between scenes, various lighting effects were used to capture the tone of each version. This simulated the parallels to the choices the characters made.

While researching for the play, Luis noticed that many previous productions used blackouts to transition between scenes. She found this to be “disconnecting” and in opposition to the play’s intended meaning. 

“Every production that I’ve seen has nothing to do with the message for the play, and I wanted to do it justice and in a way that was … always flowing and growing through branches but never stopping,” Luis said. 

By bringing this knowledge and perspective, Luis was able to expand the outcomes of the multiverse and connect with audience members. When switching between scenes, various lighting effects were used to capture the tone of each version. This simulated the parallels to the choices the characters made.

As the scenes shifted, the audience began to engage more deeply with the story. In some intense moments, like when the audience finds out that Marianne is ill and unsure of future possibilities for herself. The complex love story unfolds with ballroom lessons, awkward conversations and elbow licking. The production concluded with a discussion of time within the multiverse and how, in our everyday lives, our universe evolves due to the actions we take when we encounter one another.

“This play has also taught me a lot about the relationships in my life and reminds me that every day we have with the people we love is special,” Smith said. 

The song “Everything is Romantic” by Charli XCX, which played at the beginning and end of the performance, captured the magic of falling in love, which can occur in different moments, settings and times. 

 “Nowadays, we consume so much media that allowing for theater to connect with you in different ways really expands the impact.” Fabiola Santiago-Ruiz, FCLC ’25

Although it was open for only one night, the production was professional and skilled. The many Fordham alumni and friends in attendance created a homey environment that invited the cast to interact and engage with the group throughout the night. 

Ruiz, who served as the show’s producer, wants to continue finding exciting and engaging ways to keep theatre alive beyond Fordham. 

“I love the idea of immersive theater and interactive theatre where the audiences get different entry points,” Ruiz said. “Nowadays, we consume so much media that allowing for theater to connect with you in different ways really expands the impact.” 

She said that this was her “mission” while producing “Constellations.” She also emphasized the need for theatre and its growing imagination to run wild beyond the walls of Fordham Lincoln Center (FLC).

“Constellations” reflects the future of Fordham artists holding true to experimental storytelling. The team left a lasting impression on the audience at Caveat, as their artistic choices shone a light on the sophistication of human connection. This comprehensive alumni production showcases how Fordham artists have drawn on the techniques and inspiration gained during their time at FLC, channeling them into impactful and creative spaces.