Northwestern College’s theatre department will present “Defying Gravity” on February 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21 at 7:30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on February 14, in the Allen Black Box Theatre in Orange City.
Written by Jane Anderson, the play is set against the backdrop of the 1986 Challenger space shuttle disaster and blends fact and fiction to explore how personal and collective experiences of loss shape resilience, memory, and hope. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, including the teacher chosen to travel aboard the shuttle, her daughter left behind, bystanders processing shock, and artist Claude Monet, whose impressionistic worldview influences how audiences experience the narrative. Together, these characters navigate the joys and pains of human connection and disconnection.
Director Drew Schmidt, associate professor of theatre at Northwestern, describes the production as “heart‑wrenchingly hopeful,” emphasizing theatre’s role in helping audiences examine themselves and emerge more whole.
The cast features Northwestern acting faculty member Molly Wiebe Faber as Elizabeth, with Rebecca De Haan as understudy. Additional cast members include Charlee Olson, Mackenna Thurman, Dana Sorenson, Simon Maggert, Mackenzie Russell, and Micah De Young.
The production incorporates impressionistic projections inspired by Monet, along with nostalgic mid‑1980s costumes and props. Educational displays on Monet, the Challenger explosion, and Christa McAuliffe will be available in the lobby.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and go on sale January 30. Reservations can be made on Northwestern’s TicketLeap, by calling 712‑707‑7098, or by emailing boxoffice@nwciowa.edu.
