REDshift: a play-reading under the stars of the Southworth Planetarium

Name: REDshift: a play-reading under the stars of the Southworth Planetarium
Start: 2025-01-10T19:30:00-05:00
End: 2025-01-10T21:30:00-05:00
Location: Southworth Planetarium

Schedule

Fri Jan 10 2025 at 07:30 pm to 09:30 pm

UTC-05:00

Location

Southworth Planetarium | Portland, ME

Come watch 'Redshift', a play inside the Southworth planetarium about a high-functioning autistic young woman whose passion leads her to use the Hubble Space Telescope to create the Hubble Deep Field.
*Exploring Autism Through the Stars*
In a poignant and visually stunning production, Redshift tells the story of Elisse beginning in her high school years, where she is bullied for behaviors associated with Asperger’s syndrome. Finding refuge in the digital presence of legendary astronomer Edwin Hubble, Elisse’s journey showcases her perseverance, intellectual brilliance, and emotional growth. The narrative leaps forward to her career as a Ph.D. astronomer, where she observes the cosmos through the Hubble Space Telescope and overcomes immense personal and professional challenges to create the Hubble Deep Field image. Along the way, the story celebrates her triumphs, including the discovery of love and connection.
*An Unparalleled Visual Experience*
Set against the immersive backdrop of a planetarium dome, the staged reading of Redshift integrates stunning projections of galaxies, stars, and the night sky, transporting the audience to the very edge of the universe. This innovative use of multimedia creates a celestial tapestry that complements the actors’ performances, both breathtaking and thought-provoking.
*A Stellar Cast and Creative Team*
The play features nine talented actors who bring Elisse’s journey and the vivid personalities around her to life. Through their performances, Redshift sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of individuals on the autism spectrum. “We wanted to create something that not only tells an inspiring science story but also highlights the hidden talents and unique contributions of autistic individuals to fields like astronomy,” said playwright Chalmers. “Through Redshift, we hope to foster greater understanding and appreciation for the extraordinary potential in everyone.”
$18 adults || $15 seniors || $6 students