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A DRAMATISTS PLAY SERVICE TITLE
Full-Length Play, Drama / 4w, 1m
Lauren Gunderson
The true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt explores a woman’s place in society during a time of immense scientific discoveries, in a play whose narrative spans from the heavens to the earth.
Winner! 2024 William Inge Theatre Festival, Distinguished Achievement in the American Theatre Award Finalist: 2013 Jane Chambers Award
When Henrietta Leavitt begins work at the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s, she isn’t 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. In her free time, as Henrietta 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 dismissed until men claimed credit for them.
Professional Artwork Available for Your Production of Silent SkyConcord Theatricals has collaborated with Subplot Studio to create high-quality artwork that complies with your license. Promoting your show has never been easier! Learn more at Subplot Studio.
Silent Sky was commissioned by and premiered at South Coast Repertory in Costa Mesa, CA as part of the 2011 Pacific Playwrights Festival. Directed by Anne Justine D’Zmura, the production featured Monette Magrath as Henrietta Leavitt.
HENRIETTA LEAVITT – 30s, brilliant, meticulous, excited, almost always wearing a period hearing-aid.MARGARET LEAVITT – 30s, homebody, creative, sweet, sister.PETER SHAW – 30s, the head astronomer’s apprentice… and the man.ANNIE CANNON – 40s, the leader, terse and sure, grows into a firebrand.WILLIAMINA FLEMING – 50s, smart as a whip and fun, Scottish.
Multiple locations in Henrietta’s life. 1900–1920.
“Sheer magic! Smart, infectious humor.” – San Francisco Chronicle
“In Silent Sky, a pioneer claims her place among astronomy’s stars.” – Boston Globe
“Gunderson’s writing strikes a balance between the cerebral and poetic that’s ideal for this subject matter. She has a flair for a nicely turned line… exceptionally effective stage writing.” – Houston Chronicle
“Mind-expanding. Heart-expanding.” – Theater Dogs
ON BREAKING CHARACTER
Lauren Gunderson in Five Playsby Ally Varitek5 April 2026
Scenes from Silent Sky – South Coast Repertory World Premiere
Silent Sky Trailer – Theatreworks
Lead Sheets
Performance Tracks
Lauren Gunderson is one of the most produced playwrights in America since 2015, topping the list thrice, including 2022/23. She is a two-time winner of the Steinberg/ATCA New Play Award for I and You and The Book of Will, the William Inge Distinguished Achievement in Theater ...