THE WORLD SCIENCE FESTIVAL: THE EXPLORERS CLUB
“These are…I think…the best of times.”-Sylvia Earle on how hopeful she is for the future of science.
What a delightful and inspiring evening at the Manhattan Theatre Club. During the five days of the World Science Festival 2013 (May 29th-June 2nd) I have taken the opportunity to indulge my inner nerd. Tonight was an event that seemed to be made for me-a performance of Nell Benjamin's (Legally Blonde: The Musical) new play "The Explorers Club", followed by a discussion with the playwright and real life explorer, Nell Benjamin. Now I am no scientist, but I can certainly respect (and fangirl over) the accomplished Sylvia Earle, the first woman admitted to New York's Explorers Club. Earle talked about the challenges of breaking into a male driven world and of the joy and (as of yet much undiscovered) fascination of the ocean. She joked, "as long as I'm breathing, I'll be diving." Not to mention Jennifer Westfeldt's (whom I also love) performance as plucky and determined fictional explorer Phyllida. Tonight I watched one of my favorite actresses and learned from one of America's most esteemed explorers. I remembered the importance of retaining curiosity and hope in such a cynical world. All in all, a Friday night well spent.
Contributed exclusively for MONOLODGE by Krista White
