Heartwood Regional Theater Company continues its 24-25 season with Lauren Gunderson's “Silent Sky,” opening Friday, June 20 at the Poe Theater at Lincoln Academy.

Widely produced since its first production in 2015, the story follows Henrietta Leavitt, as she begins work at the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s, where she isn’t allowed to touch a telescope or follow her scientific interests. Instead, she joins a group of women “computers,” charting the stars for a renowned astronomer who calculates projects in “girl hours” feeding his work. 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.

The true story of 19th century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt explores a woman’s place in society during a time of immense scientific discoveries, when women’s ideas were often dismissed. Henrietta Leavitt's dedication changed the way we came to understand both the heavens and Earth.

Teralyn Reiter is featured as Leavitt, along with a devoted ensemble: Carole Florman, Emily Sue Barker, Nanette Hennig Fraser and Roosevelt Bishop. Heidi Kopishke's costumes recall the 1900 – 1920 period setting. Ryan Kohnert and Annalise Garnett have created an evocative, subtle set, where the music, light, and personal relationships connect the audience to this fine play.

“Like the heavens that these characters study, the play is at once simple and endlessly deep. Sweet human interactions play out on the stage, with the sky looming above, in all its majesty. We are excited to join with audiences to experience how high this excellent cast might rise!” said Griff Braley, who directs and designs the production.

This moving piece is a perfect choice for Heartwood and a perfect choice for theater lovers. Not to be missed! One matinee performance and four evening performances are scheduled in the air-conditioned Poe Theater, 81 Academy Hill Road, on the Lincoln Academy Campus:

Performances: June 20 & 26-28 at 7:30 p.m. and a Saturday matinee on June 21 at 3 p.m.  Runtime is approximately 1 hour, 45 minutes, with a brief intermission. 

Tickets are $5/students through college and $30/all adults.  Reservations strongly recommended by emailing info@heartwoodtheater.org or phoning Heartwood at 563-1373.

Heartwood’s 22nd season is sponsored by Bath Savings Institution.  Student tickets are kept to a very low $5, through the sponsorship of Moody’s Diner and First National Wealth Management.  “Silent Sky” is presented with special permission of Dramatists Play Service, Inc.