What if you had to leave behind everything you’ve known and held on to, in the pursuit of knowledge and a greater understanding of the universe? Even worse, what if you were a woman in a time when men dominated your chosen field and hardly ever gave you and other women the respect and recognition you rightfully deserved–making this a sacrifice for which you will remain unrecognized and uncredited for many, many years.
Staring starry-eyed at the silent sky
Thanks to Repertory Philippines, science enthusiasts, history fans, astronomy buffs, and theater lovers can watch “Silent Sky” this February.
Written by prolific and world-renowned playwright Lauren Gunderson, “Silent Sky” is based on the events in the life of Henrietta Swan Leavitt, a 20th century astronomer. Leavitt, alongside a group of female scientists called “computers,” worked at the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s. They had the unenviable task of cataloguing and analyzing every single star observed in the sky.
Meet the brilliant Harvard Computers — the women who unlocked the secrets of the stars. 🌌
6th from Left is Henrietta…
Posted by Silent Sky MNL on Sunday, January 20, 2019
While working at the Harvard College Observatory, Leavitt studied Cepheid variable stars, which change in brightness over set periods of time. In doing so, she observed a curious mathematical pattern in the cosmos. Her trailblazing work paved the way towards revolutionizing the way humanity understood not just the stars, but the universe itself.
During her time, however, astronomy was practically dominated by men. Thus, Leavitt’s journey proved to be equal parts challenging and frustrating–and at times, even unrewarding.
Indeed, “Silent Sky” tells the unique and powerful story of how one talented and determined woman changed astronomy–and science–forever.
Where to watch
You can catch the critically acclaimed theatrical play at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza from February 1 to 10, 2019, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3:00pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 3:00pm. For tickets or show-buying inquiries, call or text Ria Pangilinan at (0917) 5378313 or email riapangprojects@gmail.com. You may also follow the official Silent Sky Manila Facebook page for updates.
Cover photo: Silent Sky MNL Facebook page
Author: Mikael Angelo Francisco
Bitten by the science writing bug, Mikael has years of writing and editorial experience under his belt. As the editor-in-chief of FlipScience, Mikael has sworn to help make science more fun and interesting for geeky readers and casual audiences alike.
