Marist Theatre Presents “Lonely Planet”

James Maltby '24 and Cara Stefanik '27 in Lonely Planet. Credit: Carol Segura '27

The Marist Theatre program put on the play “Lonely Planet” for their Spring MainStage Production.

Written by Steven Dietz and directed by Emma Hersey-Powers ‘24, “Lonely Planet” follows the story of friends Jody and Carl as they live through the AIDS crisis. Comprised of copious metaphors, the play reveals themes of resilience and courage through a time of fear.

“The show has such an important message to share, and it was beautiful to see it on stage,” said Hersey-Powers.

Because “Lonely Planet” was shown four times from April 4 through 7, Marist Theatre created two two-person casts instead of the usual one. Each cast, Cast Neptune and Cast Pluto, performed the show twice.

James Maltby ‘24, who played Jody in Cast Neptune, said that it was his favorite role he’s ever played. However, he said that he initially had trouble finding common ground with the character.

“You don't need to connect to every aspect of a character; I wasn't around during the AIDS crisis, so I can't connect to that,” said Maltby. “But I was able to connect with that introverted nature and the fear of confronting uncomfortable truths, so I focused on that.”

Cast Neptune’s Carl, played by Cara Stefanik ‘27, said they saw a part of themself in Carl. “Part of the reason I even auditioned to begin with was because ‘Lonely Planet’ was a show strictly about the AIDS crisis and what it meant to be gay at the time,” they said. “As a gay person, that message is incredibly important to me.”

Though both casts were given the same script, their rehearsals were separated to ensure creative freedom. Stefanik said the casts gave very different performances, and they only got to see each other in the final production.

James Maltby '24 and Cara Stefanik '27 in Lonely Planet. Credit: Carol Segura '27

“I am actually grateful for this; the different interpretations of the text were so interesting to see, and they really spoke to Dietz's writing abilities,” said Stefanik.

According to Hersey-Powers, the cast members began learning their lines on Feb. 28, anticipating a first performance on April 4. With the combination of the heaps of lines to learn and a lack of time to prepare, it is no surprise that cast members faced challenges when preparing.

“With how things worked out, there were roughly a dozen rehearsals total and over 350 lines for each of us to memorize,” said Stefanik.

“It's a two-person show, so you can imagine how much work we each had to put in just to be able to do our lines without a script,” added Maltby.

Hersey-Powers' difficulties presented themselves differently. Because this is her favorite play, she described the opportunity to direct the show as both exhilarating and horrifying.

“I was unsure if I was worthy and able to give this show all it deserved,” said Hersey-Powers. “In the end, I really hope that I did.”

“I love this club with my whole heart, but it can be very overwhelming at times to be a part of, as I’m sure any group can be. That being said, I wouldn’t take back my opportunity and time with Marist Theatre for anything,” added Hersey-Powers.

Stefanik, who has only been involved in two shows, has already expressed positive remarks about the welcoming atmosphere that Marist Theatre offers.

“As a freshman, I was concerned about the environment, but everyone involved was so welcoming and accepting of me,” they said. “I have already found some amazing friends who I love so dearly.”

While out of sight, the students who curate the show from behind the scenes are greatly appreciated by the cast members. Maltby, Stefanik and Hersey-Powers expressed great gratitude for the crew.

“Everyone involved went above and beyond to make sure we could give the audience a fully-fledged show with a beautiful set, dynamic lighting and believable sound,” said Maltby.

Marist Theatre will end the spring 2024 semester with its 42nd annual Playwrights’ Festival, featuring five plays, five writers and five directors.

“I am so proud of what we all created and honored to have directed it, but this creation was a collaboration,” said Hersey-Powers. “It would not have been possible without every single person involved.”