Grief Astronomer at Icebox Project Space

Grief Astronomer, created and performed by Laurel Johnson is an immersive, multimedia exploration of trauma, disability, childhood, and our relationship to a massive and mysterious universe. Climb aboard our rocketship and become a cosmonaut of memory. Together, well turn a telescope toward the distant cosmos, and a kaleidoscope toward our inner cosmos. Hand in hand, we'll investigate the parts of ourselves the sun illuminates and the parts the light can't reach, and wrestle with paradoxes both internal and external, micro and macro. Enter into our blanket fort where all is cozy and beautiful, and we are safe to talk about the hard things. Earnest and playful, tragic and tender and raw, Grief Astronomer is a world full of wonder that tells stories of resilience: how we survive the unsurvivable, make meaning of the meaningless, seek connection in the chaos, and find our way back home.

After a hugely successful premiere at The Neofuturists in Chicago, Grief Astronomer is coming to the expansive Icebox Project Space. Slumber party meets therapy session meets light show at the planetarium, this event is BYOB (bring your own blankie) and BYOP (bring your own pillow). Seating will be pillows and blankets on the floor, with chairs available for those who need them. There will be snacks! and glow sticks! and secrets! and balloons! Wearing jammies strongly encouraged! Come ready to get cozy and go deep.

Show runs about 60 minutes. All performances will be Relaxed Performances, designed to accommodate folks with physical or developmental disabilities, or sensory sensitivities. Most of the show is visually accessible for folks who are hearing impaired. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact griefastronomershow@gmail.com, and we will be happy to offer more information, or brainstorm about how to accommodate any specific needs you may have.