Glenbard North theater to perform 'Silent Sky' about 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt

On Nov. 11-13, Glenbard North High School's theater program will present "Silent Sky," by Lauren Gunderson. The play, which tells the true story of early 1900s astronomer Henrietta Leavitt, explores women in science and their place in society.

When Leavitt began her work at the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s, she was not allowed to touch a telescope or express any of her original ideas.

She joins a group of women, who have been deemed as "computers," charting the night sky for a renowned astronomer who measures projects in "girl hours."

In her free time, Leavitt attempts to measure the distance and the light of stars; she must also try to measure her life on Earth.

Trying to balance her dedication to discovery and science, family obligations and even the possibility of love.

Social progress, like scientific progress, can be hard to see when one is trapped among earthly complications. Henrietta Leavitt and her female peers believe in both, and their dedication changed the way we understand both the heavens and Earth.

Performances will be 7:30 p.m. Thursday to Saturday, Nov. 11 -13 in the Little Theatre at Glenbard North, 990 N. Kuhn Road in Carol Stream.

Tickets are $8. To reserve tickets, call the box office at (630) 681-3399 or go to gbntheatreboosters.org.

The cast includes: Lymarie Abril, Tess Denault, Sawyer Harle, Nora Beckett, Kaylee Harrison and Sarah Luczak. Student leaders include: Gail Creighton, Emiliano Rivas, Michael Berardi, Belle Torres, Griffin Hall, Zach Lazzara, Ilona Lebron, Francesca Butera and Roxanne Bakir.

The show is directed by Jolaine Orlin with Nathan King as technical director, lights and scenery. Additional staff roles include Marissa Talarico, costumes and sound, and Madison Gillis, props and publicity.