Invest in some tissues, if you plan on seeing Hamline Theatre’s upcoming production of Rabbit Hole.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning play, written by David Lindsey-Abaire, centers around a couple in the aftermath of losing their infant son in a tragic accident.

Becca, played by sophomore Grace Busse, and Howie, played by senior Robby Miller, struggle to rekindle their marriage while grief takes its toll. Their relationship becomes tense when Howie suspects Becca might be trying to abandon memories of their little boy.

Jason, played by sophomore Nick Hill, is the high school student responsible for the death of Becca and Howie’s son. He seeks forgiveness but struggles to make amends with the couple.

Sophomore Hannah Coleman plays Izzy, Becca’s charming sister and junior Tei Ellgen plays Nat, Becca and Izzy’s blunt yet caring mother.

This year’s Stage Manager is sophomore Anna Becker, while the role of Assistant Stage Manager is filled by sophomore Elli Vega.

During their first week of full run-throughs, the cast was focused on memorizing lengthy loads of dialogue, as well as blocking. The team is still in the process of playing with different ideas and taking creative liberties with the help of their director, Theatre Professor Jeff Turner. Since the play takes place strictly within Howie and Becca’s home, the stage is set as a series of furnished rooms, including a kitchen, living room, and a child’s seemingly unused bedroom.

Amidst the drama, Rabbit Hole is filled with moments of heart and laughter.

“We work really well as a collaborative team,” Coleman said about the rehearsals. “Our professor is a really good mentor.”

Coleman emphasized that Rabbit Hole has been her favorite show at Hamline so far. “I love this show. It’s just a beautiful story about grief,” she said. “It approaches grief in such a lighthearted way. It’s not all tears…It’s a very truthful depiction.”

A small cast of five means more pressure to memorize lines, but it also has its benefits.

“The cast gels really well together,” Brusse said of her fellow performers. “These are some talented individuals I’m surrounded by.”

Busse also believes Rabbit Hole is realistic in its depiction of loss. “I really appreciate the realism of the dialogue. It’s a really accurate portrayal of what mourning feels like.”

Performances are Mar. 2, 3, 8, 9, and 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the Anne Simley Theatre. Tickets are $2 for Hamline students and $8 for general admission. They can be purchased ahead of time by calling the Hamline Theatre Box Office or by email at tickets@hamline.edu.