Redwood Curtain Theater presents “The Half Life of Marie Curie” through February 21st, featuring two North Coast theater veterans in a remarkable collaboration. Peggy Metzger, co-founder of Redwood Curtain Theater, and Cassandra Heseltine, Humboldt County Film Commissioner and accomplished actor, bring the extraordinary friendship between Nobel Prize-winning physicist Marie Curie and her confidante, pioneering scientist Hertha Ayrton to life.

What makes this production particularly special is the journey behind it. After 34 years of working together in various theatrical capacities—Peggy directing Cassandra, and vice versa—the two finally share the stage for the first time. They intentionally sought the right vehicle for their partnership, ultimately discovering this intimate two-person play that explores themes of friendship, resilience, and women supporting each other against societal prejudice.

The production is directed by Nanette Voss and Julie Benson, who took on the challenge of directing two experienced directors-turned-actors. For Peggy, who has spent 25 years producing and directing at Redwood Curtain, this represents a rare opportunity to focus solely on performance. Cassandra brings her storytelling passion to the stage while maintaining her film industry career, finding in theater an artistic outlet free from Hollywood’s constraints.

The play examines how Marie Curie and Hertha Ayrton navigated scandal and scientific barriers in an era when women faced severe restrictions in academia. While the playwright took some creative liberties with the timeline, the core relationship remains historically authentic—these two brilliant women genuinely supported each other through professional and personal challenges.

Expect both laughter and tears from this two-hour production exploring mature themes. Thursday performances feature special pricing, and a post-show talkback is scheduled for Friday, February 6th.

Tickets are available now at https://www.redwoodcurtain.com/.

KHUM Interview - The Half Life of Marie Curie at Redwood Curtain Theatre