The true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt explores a woman’s place in society during a time of immense scientific and heart-bound discoveries. With music and math bursting forth onstage, Henrietta and her female peers change the way we understand both the heavens and the Earth.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

HENRIETTA LEAVITT (LEH-vit) Raised in Wisconsin, the daughter of a minister, and hired as a Harvard College Observatory “computer,” Henrietta is a non-traditional early 1900s woman. She aspires to work as an astronomer, making a discovery that will change the world of astronomy forever. She is passionate about her work and feels compelled to find answers to her questions about the universe.  Brilliant, meticulous, excited. Wears a period hearing aid.

MARGARET LEAVITT Henrietta’s younger sister, homebody, sweet, creative, plays piano and is a gifted musician. She is more family-oriented, stays at home and is a traditional early 1900s woman. She marries and has a child. She is concerned about Henrietta’s ambition, as it goes against the traditional norms for women at the time; however, she is supportive of her sister and celebrates her accomplishments.

PETER SHAW The head astronomer’s apprentice and supervisor of the women at the observatory. In contrast to Henrietta, he is not passionate about astronomy, although he enjoys the work. He wanted to be an actor. He falls in love with Henrietta.

ANNIE CANNON Henrietta’s co-worker, she has made important scientific discoveries of her own, developing the Harvard spectral system. She is also a suffragette. Although she can be a bit terse, she grows close to Henrietta and Williamina in their studies, and Annie’s sureness helps as the women advocate for themselves in a male-dominated work environment. 

WILLIAMINA FLEMING Scottish, smart as a whip and fun.  A former housekeeper for Dr. Pickering, head of the Harvard College Observatory, she was hired because Dr. Pickering felt she would do better than the men he had working for him. She discovered the Horsehead Nebula. She is smart and quick-witted.