Last Thursday marked the opening night of the Covey Center for the Arts performance of Lauren Gunderson’s “Silent Sky.” This play takes the audience on a journey through the night sky and life of Henrietta Leavitt, an early 20th-century astronomer. The play, interlaced with themes of feminism, determination and a thirst for knowledge, is not to be missed. Running through March 4, be sure to get tickets soon.

The story tells of the young Henrietta, who leaves her home and accepts a job at Harvard Observatory as a “computer” who maps the distance between stars. The play celebrates the spirit and pursuit of understanding the universe and all it entails. The play weaves throughout Leavitt’s life and all of her scientific contributions as well as her personal struggles. The script and cast did a great job of seamlessly balancing her scientific findings as well as her heartfelt moments throughout her life. This created a beautiful painting of tangible emotion that sits with the audience.

The cast gave incredible performances throughout the show. Rachel Ryan Nicholes portrayed her role as Henrietta with so much depth and nuance, seamlessly flowing from direct and assertive to passionate within her roles as a sister and as a scientist. The chemistry among the characters is charged and brings the crowd into their stories. Christie Gardner, who plays Margaret, Henrietta’s sister, shows the concern of an older sibling while still portraying the amazement she has for her sister and her work.

The cast also includes Jordan Nicholes, who plays Henrietta’s love interest, Mr. Shaw, as well as Henrietta’s co-workers, Annadee Morgan as Williamina Fleming and Alexis Boss as Annie Cannon. The cast of five is well-rounded and very compatible with each other, and the humor sprinkled throughout the play provides moments of fun, which helps to keep the play from being overly didactic.

This production is performed in the smaller Black Box Theater in the Covey Center. The set design created an intimate experience for the audience as Robert Seely and Spencer Powell, the set and lighting designers, homed in on the cosmic theme and created a stunning visual experience.

The play focuses on the strength and challenges women faced during that time in general as well as in the male-dominated field of astronomy. The play balances between the contributions that Henrietta provided toward the field of astronomy and science as well the gender inequality. The struggles faced by the characters resonate with contemporary issues, making the play not just a historical drama but also a timely and relevant exploration of women’s roles in science and society.

In a world where women in science and their stories are frequently overlooked, “Silent Sky” is a beacon that brings Leavitt’s legacy to the forefront. It inspires audiences to challenge societal norms, pursue their passions and reach for the stars. “Silent Sky” is a must-see production that beautifully marries scientific discovery with the human spirit’s indomitable will. Don’t skip out on this incredible Covey Center production and be sure to see it before it stops running on March 4.

Newsletter