Not only is Silent Sky a story about space, but it also sheds light on heartache, the inconsistency of life and finding our place in a dark abyss so vast that we sometimes lose ourselves.
Henrietta Levitt’s tale intertwines her passion for discovery with the vastness of our galaxy, telling a story of how some of the world’s greatest discoveries were made by brilliant women.
Silent Sky opened at Samford’s Christenberry Planetarium on Oct. 31 and ran through Nov.
The tale begins with Henrietta and her sister, Margaret, exchanging a heated debate about dowries and Henrietta’s unruly obsession with the sky. Sitting in the audience, I could feel the passion and tension from Samford theatre majors Ross and Marjorie Castro Arias.
As we delve further into the show, we see an enthusiastic Henrietta arrive at Harvard, joined by a talented and fierce group of women computers: Annie Cannon and Williamina Fleming.
Actors Ariel Hill (who plays Annie Cannon) and Mary-Rene Quarles (who plays Williamina Fleming) deliver portrayals of two witty, intelligent and driven women who are a force in their respective roles.
They are not only loyal confidants but also help persuade the headstrong Henrietta to step outside her comfort zone, especially regarding a beloved character-turned-bad, Peter Shaw. Perhaps having one of the most downward-spiraling character arcs in the play, Peter provides the audience with a blend of charm and intelligence.
As the characters work toward one of the most important discoveries in human history — the distance of the stars and where in the universe we are — the underlying message becomes clear: women are often overlooked.
Set in the early 1900s, women rarely held prominent positions in society. In fact, women computers (or those who compute, as explained in the play) often worked extensive hours without pay. The play captures these moments while recognizing Henrietta Leavitt’s grit for discovery and innovation.
I spoke with the three main characters of the play to hear their thoughts on the stories of these powerful female figures in the space industry.
“The wholesome aspect of this play meant the world to me; it’s ultimately a group of strong women coming together for something they love,” said Quarles.
A lot can be learned from plays like Silent Sky. Themes of perseverance, the value of friendship and love are central messages that the play aims for the audience to feel and recognize.
“I think it’ll impact women by showcasing multiple ways to be feminine. I love how Silent Sky presents different variations of femininity,” said Hill.
Throughout the play, the uncomfortable truth about women being stripped of their accomplishments is evident. Fortunately, both the actors and the plot finally give women the standing ovation they so desperately deserve.
Not only does our main character receive recognition for helping to discover the infinite number of galaxies in space, but Henrietta also gives both Annie and Williamina their flowers too.
“What I love most about this play is the showcase of passion, which I hope people see when they come to the show. I hope it makes them think about what they’re passionate about and how it manifests in their lives. I hope women understand that it was rough back then and that we’ve come a long way,” said Ross.
Staff Writer
