The University of Winnipeg Department of Theatre and Film opens its season with Silent Sky, a production that shines a light on forgotten women of science.
In Silent Sky, American playwright Lauren Gunderson brings to life the untold story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt and her peers, Annie “Jump” Cannon and Williamina Fleming. These remarkable women were hired to work in the Harvard Conservatory, and all given the title “Computer”. Their contributions paved the way for other female scientists and transformed science; however, their work continues to be overshadowed by their male counterparts.
This play is about the glory and hard work of science. They all changed the course of astronomy.
Lauren Gunderson
Henrietta Leavitt made a groundbreaking discovery that changed our understanding of the universe. Leavitt provided astronomers with the first standard with which to measure the distance to other galaxies. The play illuminates not only Leavitt’s personal journey but also the struggles faced by women in science during a time when their intellects and achievements were often erased. With music, math, and lots of laughs on stage, Leavitt and her female colleagues defy the constraints of their time to alter the course of astronomical history.
“This play is about the glory and hard work of science,” says playwright Lauren Gunderson. “It is a story of family, both the ones we are born with and the ones we choose. It’s the story of sisterhood and, yes, a little bit of old-fashioned boy-meets-girl as well. The profundity of working hard on something you truly believe in and doing so without immediate credit. They all changed the course of astronomy.”
The stories of Leavitt, Cannon, and Fleming are a powerful reminder of the resilience, intelligence, and determination of women in science, whose accomplishments have too often been relegated to the margins. Silent Sky challenges audiences to reconsider how history remembers women and highlights the ongoing need to elevate their voices in every field.
UWinnipeg’s production features performances by the fourth-year Honours Acting class, and all technical work is done by both junior and senior production students, supervised by UWinnipeg staff and faculty. Lighting and set design is by faculty member Sean E. McMullen and costume design is by faculty member Brenda McLean. Silent Sky is directed by former Winnipeg Studio Theatre Artistic Director Erin McGrath.
Silent Sky runs Tuesday, December 3 through Friday, December 6 at 7:30 p.m. each evening, and Saturday, December 7 at 4:00 p.m. The December 5 performance will have ASL interpretation. Performances will take place at the Asper Centre for Theatre and Film (400 Colony – entrance off Balmoral St). Admission is free, but reservations are recommended. Please call the 24-hour Reservation Line at 204.786.9152 or visit UWinnipeg’s Department of Theatre and Film website at http://theatre.uwinnipeg.ca.
Based in the Asper Centre for Theatre and Film at The University of Winnipeg, the Department of Theatre and Film offers concentrations in acting, design, drama in education, filmmaking, playwriting, and production/stage management. Our classes are small and our approach is practical. Our faculty is comprised of highly respected and award-winning professionals who are experienced teachers and remain active in their disciplines, bringing relevant and up-to-date instruction to our students.
