Date of Graduation

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts in Theatre (MFA)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Theatre

Advisor/Mentor

Irish, Shawn

Committee Member

Elledge, Austin

Second Committee Member

Hicks, Morgan

Keywords

Astronomer; Henrietta Leavitt; Lauren Gunderson; Lighting; Technical; Theatre

Abstract

This thesis will explore how lighting can express wonder, isolation, and discovery through the lens of the play Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson. Produced at the University of Arkansas in February 2025, my design utilized shifts in color, intensity, and movement to mirror Henrietta Levitt’s pursuit of understanding within both science and society. This design sought to balance the expansiveness of the never ending universe with the intimacy of humanity, using lighting to bridge the vastness with isolation. Challenges in this production included creating a sense of infinite space within the confines of a proscenium theatre, having continuity across multiple locations and time periods, as well as running into issues with the lighting system in the University Theatre. This document will look at those challenges, as well as the design’s successes and areas for growth. Finally, it will look at the central question: How can lighting design evoke both the scientific clarity and emotional depth of Silent Sky, guiding audiences to feel the humanity within Henrietta’s journey? All documents that played a part in this lighting design process are included such as: light plot, magic sheet, and research images. Production photos are also referenced throughout to illustrate the approach of this design.

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