STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Wagner College Theatre kicks off its 2025-26 Stage One season with “Silent Sky,” a moving biographical drama that tells the untold story of pioneering astronomer Henrietta Leavitt, whose groundbreaking discoveries forever changed the field of astronomy.
Set in the early 1900s at the Harvard Observatory, “Silent Sky” follows Leavitt as she joins a team of women “human computers,” barred from using telescopes or voicing original theories. Defying these limitations, Leavitt made a discovery that became foundational to understanding the scale of the universe.
“It is a show built on love! Whether it’s the characters’ love for science or each other, every single line of this show is part of an epic love story,” said Micaela O’Rourke, assistant director and dramaturg. “We get to see Henrietta fearlessly fight for herself, her craft, and her relationships because they are all things she holds very, very close to her heart. It is truly inspiring.”
Salvatore Romania, who plays Peter Shaw, added, “‘Silent Sky’ is incredibly special because it [blends] the concepts of astronomy, romance, art, and dedication into one captivating play.”
Student-Directed and Faculty-Mentored
The production is directed by Maria-Ioana Andrei, a Class of 2026 arts administration major. It marks the start of a season dedicated entirely to student-directed productions, mentored by faculty member Lou Jacob.
Student directors were selected through a competitive proposal process led by Wagner faculty, including directing professor Mickey Tennenbaum.
“This season highlights not just the talent of our students, but our program’s deep commitment to cultivating emerging voices in theatre,” the department said in a statement.
Following “Silent Sky,” the season continues with “Antigone,” directed by Shane Hickey (’26, theatre studies), and concludes with a reimagined “Much Ado About Nothing,” directed by Sierra Friday (’26, design, technology, and management).
Performance Details
Performances of “Silent Sky” will take place on:
Oct. 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 11 at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Oct. 12 at 2 p.m.
All shows will be held in Stage One at Wagner College Theatre, located on Wagner’s Grymes Hill campus. Audience members may park in the Tiers Lot Visitor Parking or the Stadium Parking Lot. For GPS directions, use 631 Howard Ave., Staten Island, NY 10301.
Tickets are $10 plus a $2 service fee, and can be purchased online at wagner.edu/performing-arts, by calling the box office at 718-390-3259, or by emailing boxoffice@wagner.edu. The box office is open Monday through Friday, 12–4 p.m., and one hour before each performance.
SILive.com readers can receive 10% off their ticket purchase using promo code: SILive.
The Company
The production team for “Silent Sky” is led by director Maria-Ioana Andrei, with Lou Jacob serving as directing supervisor. Micaela O’Rourke contributes as dramaturg, alongside Jareb Goldston as scenic designer and Alex Rice as lighting designer. Costume design is by Sierra Friday, sound design by Moya Williams, and hair and makeup design by Tait Eddington. The production is managed by Vicki Neal, with Ash Milligan as stage manager, Brian T. Sharron as technical director, and Roux Colacino as prop master.
The cast includes: Molly Hopton, Emma Mastoros, Salvatore Romania, Gianna Marini, Mikaila Miller, Tessa Miles Rosen, Quill Cooke, and Mackenzie Walsh.
About Wagner College Theatre
Recognized nationally for its excellence, Wagner College Theatre has ranked among the top five collegiate theater programs in the United States by the “Princeton Review” since 2004, and was named No. 1 in the nation in its 2026 guide.
The department offers a rigorous blend of liberal arts education and professional training in acting, directing, design, dance, and more. With a legacy spanning over 50 years, Wagner College Theatre fosters leadership, artistic excellence, and community both on and off the stage.