The Universe on Stage

Since the beginning of time, humans have found great inspiration in observing celestial objects and phenomena. But how do scientists and artists approach such large concepts as the universe and our place within it?

Computational astrophysicist Ruth Angus is inspired by planets outside our solar system. She uses her expertise to measure the ages of thousands of stars and planets in the Milky Way galaxy.

Playwright Lauren Gunderson draws her creative inspiration from scientists themselves and uses the medium of theater to illuminate the human experience embedded within the pursuit of scientific discovery. Many of her plays explore the stories of women in science, such as “Silent Sky,” which tells the true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt and explores a woman’s place in society during a time of immense scientific and heart-bound discoveries.

Join Angus and Gunderson as they sit down with Alonso Teruel to discuss why theater is a powerful vehicle for science communication and the unique opportunity it creates to reveal the humanity of the people behind science.