The three plays (Stalemate, Self-Portrait, Solitaire) are designed to explore the dynamic of a romantic triangle, both through the course of its evolutionary development and from the specific points of view of each participant. As a contemporary trilogy, Menage a’ Trois examines a range of dramatic forms in addition to its careful analysis of the emotions, conflicts, and compromises that are an inherent part of the delicate balance required by an intimate intrigue among strong, intelligent, and passionate people.

The Message Within The Medium:

Sexual ethics, self-identity, and responsibility for the consequences of self-serving manipulations are the issues that are raised within these plays. They are intended to serve both as entertainments and catalysts for discussion.

Writers Comment on “Menage a’ Trois”

Helgeson has accomplished the rare combination of fast-paced
drama with a complicated weaving of psychological insights.
The characters are well conceived and drawn in depth. Within a
well-made play, he is still able to use inventive dramatics.

-Allan Bates, Ph.D.
Playwright-in-Residence, Northeastern Illinois University

The whole work is an evolving, unfolding of layers and discovery and each segment conveys the eternal struggle between lovers caught in their own desires and self-deceit. It is wonderful to watch.

R.J. GouldinTheatre Critic,
Shadowboxing Magazine

Helgeson’s work offers an intriguing look at what can happen when
Emotion gets out of hand and fidelity is thrown out the window.

Fred Nuccio
Skyline Theatre Critic

The three plays (Stalemate, Self-Portrait, Solitaire) are designed to explore the dynamic of a romantic triangle, both through the course of its evolutionary development and from the specific points of view of each participants. As a contemporary trilogy, Menage a’ Trois examines a range of dramatic forms in addition to its careful analusis of the emotions, conflicts, and compromises that are an inherent part of the delicate balance required by an intimate intrigue among strong, intelligent, and passionate people.

The Message Within The Medium:

Sexual ethics, self-identity, and the responsibility for the consequences of self-serving manipulations are the issues that are raised for an audience to consider within these plays. Prospective answers, of course, are beyond the scope of strictly dramatic actions. Rather, the plays are intended to serve both as entertainments and catalysts for discussion.

Writers Comment on “Menage a’ Trois”

Helgeson has accomplished the rare combination of fast-paced
Drama with a complicated weaving of psychological insights.
The characters are well conceived and darwn in depth. In a
well-made play, he is still able to use inventive dramatics.

-Allan Bates, Ph.D.
Playwright-in-Residence, Northeastern Illinois University

The whole work is an evolving, unfolding of layers and discovery and
segment conveys the eternal struggle between lovers caught in their
desires and self-deceit. It is wonderful to watch.

R.J. GouldinTheatre Critic,
Shadowboxing Magazine

Helgeson’s work offers an intriguing look at what can happen when
Emotion gets out of hand and fidelity is thrown out the window.

Fred Nuccio
Skyline Theatre Critic