As demonstrated in Brona Crehan's intense new drama, Pillow on the Stairs, a single decision can have the power to alter the course of our lives forever. Presented by the cell in association with Thursday Productions, and under John Keating's direction, Pillow on the Stairs is absorbing and full of emotion, vulnerability, and rawness.

The story begins with three individuals seated next to each other: Jim (played by John McConnell), Margaret (played by Jacqueline Kealy), and Annie (played by Brona Crehan). One at a time, the two women explain how they fell in love with Jim, speaking in soft, reflective tones as they detail their life stories and what they were searching for. A pregnancy at a young age forced Margaret to grow up fast, forcing her to make difficult decisions as she struggled with Jim's rejection. Though several years have now passed -- during which Jim has married the woman he really was in love with, Annie -- the past continues to live on, with the three individuals are inextricably connected to one another.

Pillow on the Stairs is the sort of nuanced play that makes it impossible to figure out who to "side" with; all three characters are honest when sharing their perspectives, while at the same time trying to understand where the others were coming from. Each of the actors delivers a strong performance, really connecting with the audience.

The performance venue -- the cell (338 W. 23rd) -- is worth highlighting for its intimate and contemporary setting. With an open seating area that is comfortable, yet close enough to the action (as you are literally on the same level as the performance), it has the feeling of relaxing in the home of a friend. A video screen opened this performance and featured images of Dublin in the 1960's and 1970's as soft music played in the background, creating a mood even before the first words were spoken -- a memorable start to a memorable evening.