Welcome

from Executive Director Lacey Schirmers

Greetings! I am thrilled to welcome you to GREAT Theatre’s production of Silent Sky at the Helgeson Learning Lab Theatre. Featuring state-of-the-art theatrical lighting and sound in an adaptable and flexible space, each experience in the lab is unique and brings audiences closer to the story being told. For Silent Sky, we have transformed it into the Harvard Observatory – where the groundbreaking discoveries of 19th century astronomer Henrietta Levitt took place.

Leavitt’s observations and calculations led her to develop a new way to measure distance between the stars and understand our (relatively small) place in the universe. This was a decade before women could vote and during a time of immense scientific discoveries. Although not credited at the time, it’s through her work that astronomers learned that our solar system is not the center of the universe, that galaxies exist beyond our own, and that our universe is expanding. So tonight, and each night during this Women’s History Month, when you look up at the stars, think of the women who transformed the science of astronomy and celebrate and honor their determination, passion, and sacrifice. 

I also invite you to be part of our 2024/25 season! Selected with consideration from over 1200 season subscribers, volunteer actors, GREAT’s script reading committee, staff, and board of directors (and, what we could get the rights to) – next season includes blockbuster musicals and thought-provoking plays that will entertain and inspire audiences. Did you know you save up to 30% when you become a GREAT season subscriber? Just pick 3 or more shows to subscribe and save! 

Beyond what you see on stage, the process of creating theatre is an art that develops collaboration, creativity, confidence, and meaningful connections for hundreds of artists, participants, and volunteers that bring these stories to life. And, it’s through our education outreach programming that many youth are introduced to theatre developing empathy, leadership skills, and self-discovery that will have a lasting impact for years to come. Collectively, this enriches lives and builds a more vibrant community. As a nonprofit community theatre, we produce theatre experiences with and for the community and it’s all made possible by the generous contributions of time, talent, and treasure of our volunteers, donors, and sponsors. Thank you for supporting the arts by attending today and being part of our story. Enjoy the show!