Based on the true story of New York Cosmologist Dr. Ralph Alpher. The play moves backwards, as does the study of the origins of the universe, to trace the path of the forgotten and unaccredited scientist, who before the technology was capable, provided the mathematical proof of the existence of Cosmic Background Radiation. Twenty years later after two other scientists found the actual radiation and received Nobel Prizes for their accidental discovery, Ralph suffers a heart attack due to the stress of being snubbed. It is from this moment he traces backwards through his life and, ultimately, to the beginning of time.
The play relies on silence, pace, and metaphor to deliver a striking, sometimes mystical look into the science of behind humans, and the humanity behind a scientist.
CHARACTERS:
Ralph Alpher: Physicist, 58, a paunch and a worn face.
Aliza Alpher: His daughter, 26, simple, pretty, pregnant.
Miriam: Ralph’s wife, strong, smart.
Gray1: neutral character. Represents the following parts: Arno Penzias, (Ahrno Pen-zee-uhs) Nobel Prize-winning scientist, nice guy George Gamow, (Gam-off) Alpher’s mentor, loud and Russian Other various
Gray2: neutral, represents the following: Robert Herman, Alpher’s colleague Other various
(IMPORTANT NOTE: The structure of the play mimics the study of cosmology, or the origins of the universe, by moving backwards in time. As the play progresses, Aliza becomes more protective, Ralph more distracted, and Gray more in control.)
