Bloomington, Indiana – Step into a world where modern conveniences vanish, and life is curated to mirror the 1950s. Constellation Stage & Screen presents Maple and Vine, a thought-provoking drama by Pulitzer Prize finalist Jordan Harrison, running from March 27 to April 13 at the Constellation Playhouse in downtown Bloomington.
In this gripping production, audiences will follow Katha and Ryu, a couple who find themselves disillusioned with the fast-paced, technology-driven 21st century. When they encounter a charismatic stranger from a community of 1950s reenactors, they make the radical decision to leave behind their smartphones, streaming services, and modern-day pressures in favor of a meticulously recreated mid-century world. But as they settle into this seemingly idyllic existence—filled with poodle skirts, Tupperware parties, and cigarettes—they quickly discover the unexpected costs of nostalgia and what people are willing to sacrifice for happiness.
Read also: Indiana Chamber expresses optimism about legislative progress at session midpoint
Constellation Stage & Screen has assembled an outstanding cast for this production, featuring a mix of familiar and fresh talent. Returning to the Constellation stage are Bobby Ayala Perez, who previously appeared in Holmes & Watson and The Play That Goes Wrong, along with Louisville-based actor Megan Massie, last seen in Cardinal Stage’s 2022 production of Ada and the Engine. Making their Constellation debuts are Scott Russell, an Indianapolis-based member of Actors Equity; Jeramy Rafal, a New York City-based Equity actor and alumnus of IU’s Jacobs School of Music; and Christine Zavakos, an Indianapolis performer with a wealth of regional theater experience.
Bringing Maple and Vine to life is director Ansley Valentine, a professor at Indiana University’s Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance and a member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society. Valentine’s extensive directing credits include The Mountaintop at Cardinal Stage and Fairfield at Phoenix Theatre. He is supported by a stellar creative team, including Set Designer David Wade, Lighting Designer Jennifer Fok, Costume Designer Guy Clark, Sound Designer David Sheehan, Stage Manager Philip Christiansen, and Assistant Stage Manager Chelsea Pell.
Read also: Essential steps for building a strong foundation for your business
The play will be performed at the Constellation Playhouse, located at 107 W 9th St in downtown Bloomington. Tickets start at $35 for adults and $20 for students. For those looking for a more flexible pricing option, Constellation offers its “Pay What You Will Thursdays” program, supported by Jessika and Bryan Hane, allowing patrons to choose their own ticket price (between $5 and $75) for Thursday evening performances.
Tickets are available for purchase online at seeconstellation.org, by phone at (812) 336-9300 (Monday through Friday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.), or in person at the box office, located at 122 S Walnut St (open Wednesday through Friday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.).
With its intriguing storyline, stellar cast, and powerful themes, Maple and Vine is sure to captivate audiences, leaving them questioning how much of the past is worth reclaiming. Don’t miss this unique theatrical experience that blurs the line between nostalgia and reality.
