The highs in this play are Henry's characteristics; she shows determination to discover the impossible in astronomy. She is not afraid of being different from the other girls who would just get married and have children. She is intellectual and hardworking, and Cramer performs these traits perfectly through her character. The emotions she faces as a woman in astronomy are portrayed well.
The banter between Peter and Henry is beautifully done; it keeps the audience full of laughter. Their bond was strong after having spent years apart due to difficult circumstances. Their love for astronomy shows the feelings that develop between them. Graham portrays this nerdy astronomer who falls in love with this intelligent girl. His humorous scenes were done perfectly and had the audience laughing.
The themes that the play explores are essential to the story. The passion and sacrifice that Henry experienced as a woman in astronomy is necessary, especially in that century. The play shows the diverse female experiences through the other astronomers. Willamina, played by Siri Quist, plays this hilarious, witty astronomer. This brings humor to the play, which is much needed with certain profound aspects. Quist portrays a Scottish accent well; it convincingly shows the proper humorous elements of the character.
Another high was the character Annie, played by Raegan Woodiwiss. She was full of power and was determined to be a brave woman in astronomy and other aspects, such as protesting for women’s rights. Woodiwiss portrayed this character perfectly, and the development of the character was done beautifully. She used to be this serious and grumpy character, but after she experienced her love for protests, she became this hilarious essence.
The last high is the relationship between Margaret, played by Abigail Labbe, and Henry. Their bond as sisters was initially rocky, but they slowly developed a strong sisterhood. After their father passed away, their connection developed stronger. Labbe performed well as her big sister, who can be difficult but is always supportive.
Lows
There were minimal lows, considering that this play was based on the true story of an astronomer. The only low is the development of the relationship between Peter and Henry. They split during Henry’s time away from him when her father passed. But when she returned, their relationship was perceived coldly, and he did not pursue her anymore. There is a lack of background information on what happened between them.
Verdict
These students performed "Silent Sky" beautifully; it was full of emotion and hilarious scenes. The students showed the truth behind the astronomer Henrietta Leavitt in the 1910s.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10
Mariam Fakhreddine is a film and theater reviewer for The Eastern Echo. She has worked as a news and features reporter for The Echo for two years.
