What does it mean to leave a legacy?
Henrietta Leavitt lived from 1868 to 1921, and suffered from an unknown condition that caused progressive hearing loss throughout her life. Two other characters in this play, Annie Jump Cannon and Williamina Fleming, also existed and contributed to the scientific progress made at the Harvard Observatory, yet their stories are of shocking obscurity, unless you are a fan of historical astronomy.
These “computers” as they were called--women could not yet hold the title of astronomer--made numerous discoveries that have been instrumental in furthering our understanding of the universe. Perhaps most notably, an astronomer used Henrietta’s work with Cepheid variables to prove that there were galaxies outside of our own. This astronomer’s name, Edwin Hubble, was given to the famous deep-space telescope, all the while Henrietta’s remains largely unknown.
It has been gratifying to work on a play with so many lovely elements – beautiful language, strong characters, lovely piano underscoring, and a healthy dash of humor. Staging the play in traverse or “alley” staging has been a challenge to both myself and the actors involved. As a viewer, it may be shocking to be so close to the action or to always see the other half of the audience, but by staging the play this way, we as the audience are able to notice what Henrietta never was: her work being seen and appreciated.
If the story moves you, I invite you to read on these remarkable women and the effects of their work. While they may not be household names, in doing so, we can ensure that their legacy lives on.
Mr Mac
