The Performing Arts Center on the Square in downtown Searcy is inviting audiences to experience the remarkable true story of a pioneering astronomer when its latest production, “Silent Sky,” opens Thursday, November 12, 2026.
The production continues for 2 weekends, with performances scheduled November 12–15 and November 19–22.
Written by acclaimed playwright Lauren Gunderson, “Silent Sky” tells the inspiring story of Henrietta Leavitt, a woman whose groundbreaking discoveries helped change the world’s understanding of the universe.
Working at the Harvard College Observatory in the early 1900s, Leavitt studied the brightness of stars and discovered an important relationship between the brightness of certain variable stars and the length of time they take to brighten and dim.
Her research provided astronomers with a way to measure distances across the universe and helped lay the foundation for major discoveries in astronomy.
But “Silent Sky” is more than a story about science.
The play explores determination, ambition, friendship, family, love and the obstacles women faced in pursuing careers in scientific research.
The production highlights the contributions of women whose work helped advance astronomy during a time when their achievements often received limited recognition.
The Searcy production is directed by Jenni Tillery and marks the opening show of the theater’s 2026–2027 MainStage season.
Performing Arts Center on the Square has served the Searcy community for more than 25 years, providing live theatrical productions and opportunities for local performers, volunteers and audiences throughout White County and surrounding communities.
The community theater is located at 219 West Arch Avenue in downtown Searcy.
“Silent Sky” opens Thursday, November 12, and continues through Sunday, November 22, with performances scheduled across 2 consecutive weekends.
Tickets, performance times and additional information are available at centeronthesquare.org.
For additional information, contact Performing Arts Center on the Square at 501-368-0111.
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