Sergio Peris-Mencheta, theater director: "We should be taught how to die, and it is the only thing we are not taught"
Sergio Peris-Mencheta discusses his new play 'Constellations', exploring themes of chance and multiverses while reflecting on his personal battle with leukemia.
Sergio Peris-Mencheta, a prominent Spanish theater director and actor, has recently staged the play 'Constellations' by Nick Payne at the Centro Dramático Nacional in Madrid. The play delves into the concept of the multiverse, where different realities and possibilities unfold through the varied paths of a couple's relationship. Peris-Mencheta’s interpretation imbues the narrative with layers of depth, especially in light of his personal experience overcoming leukemia, which has prompted him to reflect on life, chance, and mortality.
In 'Constellations', the story is presented in a series of vignettes that explore how seemingly random encounters can lead to significant life events, such as first kisses and infidelities. This exploration aligns with the multiverse theory, where each decision spawns different outcomes, resonating with the unpredictability of life itself. Peris-Mencheta saw parallels between the play's themes and his own journey of dealing with illness and the aftermath of treatment, leading him to a poignant realization about the lessons we often overlook concerning death and dying.
Through this production, Peris-Mencheta aims not only to entertain but also to provoke thought on profound life experiences and the importance of discussing mortality. His comments shed light on a societal gap where discussions about dying are often avoided, emphasizing a need for education around this topic, making 'Constellations' a timely and relevant work in the realm of contemporary theater.