Silent Sky

by Lauren Gunderson

Astonishing discoveries await Henrietta Leavitt as she maps distant stars in galaxies beyond our own. But this brilliant, headstrong pioneer must struggle for recognition in the man’s world of turn-of-the-century astronomy. In this musical blend of science, history, family ties, and fragile love, a passionate young woman must map her own passage through a society determined to keep a woman in her place. This...

Astonishing discoveries await Henrietta Leavitt as she maps distant stars in galaxies beyond our own. But this brilliant, headstrong pioneer must struggle for recognition in the man’s world of turn-of-the-century astronomy. In this musical blend of science, history, family ties, and fragile love, a passionate young woman must map her own passage through a society determined to keep a woman in her place. This true story dives into the romance, wonder and sisterhood of science in the early 20th century female “computers” at Harvard Observatory.

Jane Chambers Award top Finalist 2013.

See research, pictures, essays, and more about the play: silentskyplay.tumblr.com

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Silent Sky

Recommended by

  • Laura Thoma: Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson
    “

    A powerful story of what it means to follow one's passion even when others believe it to be a frivolous act. Exploring the alchemy that occurs when women support women with Gunderson's trademark wit and pacing. I read this play annually to remind myself what is possible.

    A powerful story of what it means to follow one's passion even when others believe it to be a frivolous act. Exploring the alchemy that occurs when women support women with Gunderson's trademark wit and pacing. I read this play annually to remind myself what is possible.

    ”
  • Ian “El” Trutt: Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson
    “

    Saw it in Atlanta years ago and just remembered today how much I loved it. Just go read it!

    Saw it in Atlanta years ago and just remembered today how much I loved it. Just go read it!

    ”
  • Mark Rigney: Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson
    “

    It's such a great pleasure to watch a play, as it comes to a close, rise up and gather itself and deliver a serious emotional punch. SILENT SKY does that and more, providing laughs, connection, and the solid common sense to treat the audience as intelligent enough to follow both the science and human relationships. A delightful piece, and I'm so glad to have discovered it.

    It's such a great pleasure to watch a play, as it comes to a close, rise up and gather itself and deliver a serious emotional punch. SILENT SKY does that and more, providing laughs, connection, and the solid common sense to treat the audience as intelligent enough to follow both the science and human relationships. A delightful piece, and I'm so glad to have discovered it.

    ”
View all 6 recommendations

Development History

  • Commission, South Coast Rep, 2010

Production History

  • Professional, Theatrical Outfit, 2015
  • Professional, TheatreWorks, 2014
  • Professional, South Coast Rep, 2011

Awards

  • Jane Chambers Award
    Finalist
    2015