Story of astronomer explores women’s place in society during 19th Century

Based on a true story of the women who first mapped the stars, the Whitefish Theatre Company brings “Silent Sky” to the stage. 

This beautiful, thought-provoking show opens with a sneak preview night on April 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. Performances continue on April 12, 13, 18, 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m. There is one matinee performance on April 14 at 4 p.m. 

When Henrietta Leavitt begins work at the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s, she is not allowed to touch a telescope or express an original idea. Instead, she joins a group of women “computers,” charting the stars for a renowned astronomer who calculates projects in “girl hours” and has no time for the women’s probing theories. As Henrietta, in her free time, attempts to measure the light and distance of stars, she must also take measure of her life on Earth, trying to balance her dedication to science with family obligations and the possibility of love. In this exquisite blend of science, history, family ties, and fragile love, “Silent Sky” follows the true story of a passionate young woman who must map her passage through a society determined to keep a woman in her place. 

While “Silent Sky” is Director Jake Carr’s main stage debut for WTC, he is no stranger to the theater having worked extensively in Chicago and San Francisco directing, acting and coaching. “It's a director's dream to work with a script as rich as ‘Silent Sky,’” says Carr. “This play is the full meal: juicy characters, chewy ideas, huge laughs, and a massive heart. Like the best historical fiction, ‘Silent Sky’ reflects issues important to our current era. Workplace equality. Constricting gender roles. Science denial as a tool of control. But the play never gets bogged down by heavy themes.” 

“The zippy dialog is incredibly funny, written almost like an early 1900s workplace comedy,” Carr adds. “The humor allows us to see how far we've come, and the drama shows us how much room there is to grow.” 

Starring in this production are Merannda Button as Henrietta Leavitt, Becky Rygg as Margaret Leavitt, Stephanie Miller as Williamina Fleming, Sarah Bell Ghostlight as Annie Cannon, and Michael Oaks as Peter Shaw. 

“I leave with something new to think about at each rehearsal – a complex character motivation, some fascinating bit of science, reflections on my own pride and regrets,” Carr said. “It's a play that keeps giving.” 

Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors, and $10 for students with reserved seating. Tickets for the sneak preview performance on April 11 are sold only at the door and are $12 for adults and $10 for students. Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office at 1 Central Avenue in Whitefish or by calling 406-862-5371. Box Office hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and one hour before a performance. Individual tickets can also be purchased online at www.whitefishtheatreco.org. This show is sponsored by an anonymous donor and a grant from Soroptimist International of Whitefish.