Synopsis
In the early 1900s, at the dawn of modern astronomy, Silent Sky follows the journey of Henrietta Leavitt, a brilliant but underappreciated astronomer. She joins the Harvard Observatory as a "computer," where, alongside other talented women, she is tasked with cataloging the stars without the opportunity to actually look through a telescope. Despite societal limitations and personal sacrifices, Henrietta's groundbreaking discoveries in the patterns of variable stars fundamentally change our understanding of the universe, paving the way for the discovery of galaxies beyond our own.
As she navigates her passion for science, family expectations, and a budding romance, Henrietta’s story reminds us of the power of curiosity, resilience, and the strength of a single mind to illuminate the cosmos. Silent Sky celebrates the legacy of one woman’s quest for knowledge and her indelible impact on the world of astronomy.
Director's Note
Directing Silent Sky has been an immensely rewarding experience, especially because of the remarkable group of young actors bringing this story to life. Many of these performers were once my students, and seeing them grow and evolve as artists—now working alongside them in this capacity—has been nothing short of impressive.
This play asks big questions about the universe, about the nature of discovery, and about what it means to seek out something greater than ourselves. Watching these actors dive into that material and challenge themselves with its depth has been inspiring. They’ve not only expanded their technical skills but also deepened their understanding of what it means to connect with a story, and with an audience.
Silent Sky is a story about persistence and vision, and the work these young people have put into this production reflects that same spirit. It's been a privilege to witness their dedication and growth—not only as performers but as thoughtful, curious artists who are engaging with the world in new ways. This production is a testament to their hard work and passion, and I couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished.
Thank you for supporting this journey. I hope the story of Silent Sky resonates with you as much as it has with all of us.
Sincerely,
Eric Fredrickson
Director, Silent Sky
Artistic Director, 360 Theatre School
