Silent Sky

November 6, 2026 — November 15, 2026

Parish Theatre

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.

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 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.

By Lauren Gunderson

SILENT SKY is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Dramatists Play Service. www.concordtheatricals.com

 

CAST

  • Henrietta Leavitt – Sarah Lynn Roddis
  • Margaret Leavitt – Mary Teutsch
  • Peter Shaw – David Ross
  • Annie Cannon – Micha E. Myers
  • Williamina Fleming – Elizabeth Bullmer

CREW

  • Floor Managers – Susan Fry, Torri Jo Mitchell
  • Light Board Operator – Kristin Tyrrell
  • A1 Operator – Alan Moerdyk
  • A2 Operator – RJ Soulé
  • Floor Crew – Lisa Brannan, Reed Shilts
  • Playback Operator – Elia Grace

PRODUCTION TEAM

  • Director – Mike Artis
  • Scenic Designer – Justin Muse
  • Costume Designer – Addie Gorden
  • Lighting Designer – Amber Meyers
  • Sound Designer – Alex Grindey
  • Technical Director – Phillip A. Miller
  • Properties Master – Christopher Lewis
  • Stage Manager – Kalie Hagen
  • Dramaturg – Allison Mayo
  • Assistant Director – Val Glasscock
  • Assistant Stage Managers – Susan Fry, Torri Jo Mitchell
  • Scenic Carpenters – Ryan Burke, Nathan Behrend, Tully Davis
  • Scenic Artist – Justin Muse
  • Stitchers – Lindsay Fleck, Elaine Kauffman
  • Costume Shop Manager – Nora Hauk
  • Master Electrician – Benjamin Arnett
  • Properties Artisan – Jamie Chapin
  • Photographer/Graphic Designer – Deborah Browning
  • Front of House Manager – Melita Terrentine
  • Box Office Manager – Sydney Lewis
  • Audience Engagement Manager – Christopher S. Blades
  • Production Stage Manager – Kalie Hagen
  • Director of Volunteers – Mike Artis
  • Artistic Director – Anthony J. Hamilton
  • Executive Director – Laura M. Zervic

This production is performed in 2 acts with a 15-minute intermission
This production will include water-based haze 

Special Events
Kalamazoo Civic Theatre Book Club
Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 5:30–6:30 PM, Kalamazoo Public Library
The Glass Universe: How the Ladies of the Harvard Observatory Took the Measure of the Stars by Dava Sobel (for the November production of Silent Sky)
November Art Hop – Friday, November 6, 2026, 5:00–8:00 PM, Civic Auditorium
Experience Novembers Art Hop, Legacy, at the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre featuring Henrietta Leavitt’s historic journals and star plates, enjoy a cocktail while exploring the art of Delaney McKenzie in the Sips & Songs Bar and a special conversation with the creative team of Silent Sky. A night honoring discovery, storytelling, and the stars that connect us.
Community Conversation: Exploring Silent Sky – Join the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre’s creative team for a community conversation about Silent Sky at 6:00 PM in the Civic Auditorium. Explore the artistry, history, and inspiration behind the production. Connect, ask questions, and deepen your experience of this moving story.
Theme Night
Saturday, November 7, 2026 – An Evening Under the Stars
Join us for a special evening under the stars as we celebrate Lauren Gunderson’s Silent Sky! Before the performance, audiences are invited to dress up and embrace the wonder, elegance, and mystery of the night sky.

 

Performance Dates: 

  • Friday, November 6, 2026, at 7:30 PM 
  • Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 7:30 PM (ASL Interpreted & Audio Description Services Available) 
  • Sunday, November 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM  
  • Friday, November 13, 2026, at 7:30 PM 
  • Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 7:30 PM 
  • Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM 

Venue 

Parish Theatre
405 S. Lovell St.
Kalamazoo, MI 49007 

Seating 

All performances in the Parish Theatre are general admission seating. Doors open 30 minutes prior to each performance.  

Please let us know of any special needs or requests you may have in advance, and we’ll do everything we can to help you. Our goal is to provide you with the most enjoyable theatre-going experience possible. 

Parking 

Street parking is available for free after 5:00 PM on weekdays and all day Saturday and Sunday. For further assistance with parking please contact the box office at 269.343.1313. 

The Kalamazoo Civic Theatre does not rate subject matter as sensitivities vary from person to person. If you have questions about content, age appropriateness, or other aspects of the show (ie strobe lights and other theatrical effects), please contact the box office at 269.343.1313.