The Rocket Men lift off at the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Center
Production costumes were designed by Purdue's own Tony Sirk. After its run at the Phoenix, Tony's designs will go to the University of Nebraska and then to Atlanta.
Tony Sirk
Crystal Skillman’s The Rocket Men premieres at the Phoenix Cultural Center, bringing to the stage a gripping look at the German rocket scientists who were brought to the United States after World War II to help build the American space program. While these men are often celebrated for their scientific breakthroughs, the play shines a light on the moral compromises and haunting contradictions behind their legacy.
The Rocket Men Cast and Crew
In an inventive theatrical twist, the scientists are all portrayed by women, a choice that reframes the story and sharpens its focus on questions of power, responsibility, and history’s lingering shadows. The Rocket Men is part of the National New Play Network’s Rolling World Premiere program, ensuring its reach will extend beyond Phoenix to theaters across the country.
The Rocket Men Cast
For the creative team, the energy of launching a new work is part of the thrill. “It’s always very exciting working on a world premiere,” says costume designer Anthony James Sirk. “Collaborating with the production team, director, and the playwright feels electric at times.” That sense of creative electricity underscores the production’s bold vision, combining history, artistry, and imaginationto bring the story to life.
The Rocket Men Cast
The production runs September 4th - 21st at the Phoenix Cultural Center. Tickets are available at https://www.phoenixtheatre.org.
