By: Sarina D. (’19)
Everyday after school, as we head to our sports practices or instrument lessons or SAT prep classes, the cast of Radium Girls goes back in time 100 years to factory life in Illinois. Featuring Crystal Students from all four grades, Radium Girls is a dynamic ensemble piece that tells the stories of female laborers in early 20th century Illinois who contracted radiation poison from painting watch dials with self-luminous paint,  despite being told that the paint was harmless. The play’s director, Mr. Waters, explained that he chose the play because it had a large cast and would pose a challenge to the actors, who have taken on comedies in the last few Crystal productions. Radium Girls is dark and full of challenges, but ultimately delivers a message of hope.