HEISENBERG Opens Friday at Next Stage

Heisenberg by Simon Stephens will be performed on the Next Stage at Theatre Memphis as a regional premiere September 21 through October 7, 2018. This contemporary drama filled with twists and turns introduces two strangers, an older man and a younger woman, who meet on a subway platform in the most unlikely of circumstances. A mistaken identity kiss occurs and two utterly dissimilar lives begin a life-affirmative mating dance. In this recent Broadway and London hit, an electric encounter opens the door to a theatrical give and Take That is tender and funny and a master class on the thrill of uncertainty and unpredictability.

Director Irene Crist says, "The play is about a thoroughly random meeting. When we see this couple the first time we could never imagine them in anything like the relationship that develops, thus Heisenberg's probability theory. As they surprisingly discover each other it becomes funny, touching, difficult, painful, and ultimately hopeful to watch their journey." The actors in this two-man show are fans of each other's work but it is the first time Jerry Chipman and Natalie Jones have acted together. It is also the first time Crist has directed Chipman in their 35-year association although they have shared the stage on several occasions. Crist has previously directed Jones three times.

Theatre Memphis Executive Producer Debbie Litch sees the irony in producing a play about a random meeting when in fact the play finding process is so deliberate. "We are constantly in search of material that will not only entertain but also inspire and be relevant to our patrons," Litch says. "The fact that we can produce this type of newer work in the Next Stage speaks volumes to the diversity of content we are committed to offer throughout our season. We do our research, strive for artistic excellence in our choices ... but ultimately it is up to us to engage that random audience member."

www.theatrememphis.org

Photo: Jerry Chipman and Natalie Jones