This latest production by TheatreWorks Silicon Valley—a Northern California premiere—tells the story of Jerrie Cobb, an accomplished aviator who might have become America’s first female astronaut, if she had only been given the chance. Inspired by Amelia Earhart, Cobb sought to become part of the Mercury space program in the early 1960s and passed several fitness tests. In 1962, she even testified before Congress on sex discrimination in the space program. But she was unable to convince NASA to allow her to compete alongside male pilots. Much of the play’s dialogue is drawn from reports and congressional hearings. Runs through March 29.
They Promised Her the Moon
Thu, 8pm, $35+
Lucie Stern Theatre, Palo Alto
