Silent Sky
By Lauren Gunderson
Directed by Kym Longhi
Assistant directed by Rebecca Wickert and Ella Eastman-Kiesow
Presented by The University of Minnesota Theater Arts and Dance
Collaboration in a University Setting
I served as a student director on this production of Lauren Gunderson's Silent Sky alongside one of my peers and long-time collaborator, Ella Eastman-Kiesow. As student directors, we functioned as assistant directors to Kym Longhi, a senior faculty teaching specialist and theater professional at the University of Minnesota. Through Kym's mentorship, we gained powerful insight into the art of collaboration between theater artists of all disciplines and experienced the inner workings of a theatrical production from a directorial perspective.
Learning collaboration in a university setting is crucial because it mirrors real-world professional environments where teamwork is essential for success. Through collaborative projects, students develop vital interpersonal skills such as communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution, preparing them for future careers in theater where collaboration is key. Additionally, collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds fosters creativity and exposes students to different perspectives, enriching their learning experience and promoting a more inclusive academic environment.
Creative Team
Director.................................................................................................Kym Longhi
Assistant/Student Directors.....................................Rebecca Wickert
Ella Eastman-Kiesow
Set Designer..............................................................................Angie Gagliano
Lighting Designer........................................................................Wesley Cone
Costume Designer...........................................Caroline Amaral Zaltron
Prop Designer.....................................................................Ursula K. Bowden
Sound Designer/Composer...................................................Jon Brophy
Stage Manager............................................................................Hailey Ballard
Assistant Stage Managers................................Samantha Nicholson
Samantha Nunez-Mudoy
HENRIETTA LEAVITT....................................................................Iris Branseg
PETER SHAW...................................................................................Kaleb Baker
ANNIE JUMP CANNON..................................................Shayla Courteau
WILLIAMINA FLEMMING...............................................................Lily Jones
MARGARET LEAVITT......................................................................Cece Roth