Back to Plays

The Lightest Element Tickets

A gripping new drama based on defying social norms and expectations.

Keep me updated

We'll tell you as soon as tickets go on sale:

Running until 12 October 2024

Run time To be confirmed

Includes interval

  • Show info
  • Accessibility

Boston, 1956. Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, one of the most eminent astronomers of the twentieth century, is about to be appointed Chair of Astronomy and the first woman to head a Harvard department. Only two things stand in her way: a covert investigation aimed at exposing her as a communist sympathiser, and the entrenched conservatism of her male colleagues. When a student journalist asks to profile her it feels like an opportunity to control her own narrative – assuming, of course, that the invitation is actually what it seems…

Stella Feehily’s taut drama explores how challenging social norms can be almost as difficult as overturning scientific orthodoxy. Her other plays include Duck and O Go My Man (Royal Court), Dreams of Violence (Soho), and This May Hurt a Bit (Tour and St James’).

Director Alice Hamilton is Hampstead’s Associate Director, with credits including The Memory of Water, The Dumb Waiter, The Harmony Test, Out of Season, Nineteen Gardens and the Olivier nominated Every Day I Make Greatness Happen.

Running time

To be confirmed

Performance dates

5 September - 12 October 2024

Content

This production contains discussions of discrimination and sexism, strong language and the use of cigarettes.

Venue Information

Hampstead Theatre
Eton Avenue, Swiss CottageLondonNW3 3EU