News – Sheridan Media
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Sheridan College Theater will present The Lightest Element by Stella Feehily, a historical drama centered on pioneering astronomer Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, whose groundbreaking discovery that stars are made primarily of hydrogen was initially dismissed by her academic superiors.
The production explores her scientific achievements alongside the personal and professional challenges she faced in a male-dominated field.
Sheridan College Theater Instructor Dr. Lauren Graffin Estrada appeared on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse and said the production this semester has a more real-world dramatic tone that challenges the students.
Dr. L. Graffin Estrada
Set in Boston in 1956, the play joins Dr. Payne-Gaposchkin as she prepares to become the first woman to lead Harvard’s astronomy department, while navigating scrutiny from colleagues and outside pressures questioning her reputation. Through the lens of a student journalist interview, the story examines issues of recognition, bias and the control over one’s own narrative.
Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, April 17, and 2 p.m. Saturday, April 18, on Sophie’s Stage at the WYO Theater. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for veterans and free for students.
Dr. Graffin-Estrada notes the show contains adult language and runs approximately one hour and 35 minutes. For tickets, click here.
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Last modified: April 7, 2026