Northwest Missouri State University theater students will present They Promised Her the Moon Oct. 9–12 in the Studio Theater at the Ron Houston Performing Arts Center.
The production tells the story of Jerry Cobb, a pioneering female pilot who became the first woman trained as an astronaut, overcoming discrimination and social barriers of her time.
Director Billy McCoy said the play’s message is especially relevant today. “We need to retell stories of women and others who were disadvantaged by the government and by other people,” McCoy said. “It’s a beautiful story to tell and something more people need to know about.”
First-year student Phoenix Irwin, who portrays Cobb, said the story highlights the determination of women in the 1960s to break gender norms and pursue dreams once limited to men.
Fellow first-year student Kailyn Hoof-Flicker, who plays Jackie Cochran, said researching her historical character was challenging but rewarding.
Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9–11, with a 2 p.m. matinee Oct. 12. McCoy encouraged audiences to support the department’s first-year students as they showcase their talents.
