Radium Girls is a theatrical production that delves into the history of medical distress and death suffered by women who worked with radium in the 1920s. It is based on a true story, and its subject matter is a testament to the power of human resilience and determination. The play, written by D.W. Gregory, tells the story of the women who worked at an Illinois clock dial factory, where they were exposed to radium-based paint. The women, who were mostly young and inexperienced, were not properly protected from the dangers of radium, and their exposure led to severe health problems, including aplastic anemia, a condition that can be caused by radiation poisoning. The production is set to run from April 30 to May 10 at the Vernon Powerhouse Theatre. The play is directed by Adele Kuyek and features a gripping narrative that explores the struggles and triumphs of the women involved. A remarkable coincidence occurred when Vernon Powerhouse Theatre volunteer Don Dennison stumbled upon a family connection to the Radium Girls. He discovered that his late mother, Margaret, had worked with radium at a factory in Toronto during the Second World War. Dennison’s research revealed that his mother had been using radium-based paint to create luminous dials for the aircraft industry, which ultimately led to her diagnosis with aplastic anemia. The discovery of this connection sparked a new sense of purpose in Dennison, who plans to continue researching his mother’s story and writing her full history. He is particularly interested in understanding why Canadian workers, including his mother, continued to use toxic substances in an unprotected manner in the early 1940s. Dennison’s research has also led him to explore the role of corporate deception in the Radium Girls’ story. The play is based on the true story of the women who fought against corporate exploitation, and Dennison’s investigation has revealed a disturbing pattern of negligence and cover-up. Despite the dark history of the Radium Girls, the play is a powerful and uplifting story about the human spirit’s ability to persevere in the face of adversity. The production is a testament to the enduring legacy of these women, who fought for their rights and their lives. The play will feature a talented cast of actors, who will bring the story to life with their performances. The production will also include stunning visual effects, which will recreate the harsh conditions faced by the Radium Girls. A table summarizing the key facts about the Radium Girls is provided below:

A list of recommended readings on the topic of the Radium Girls is provided below:

1. The Radium Girls, by Kate Moore
2. The Girl with the Silver Locket, by Sarah Hird
3. The Dark Side of the Light Chaser, by Annette LeBox

A quoted section from Don Dennison’s letter to the Vernon News Chronicle is included below:

I have a vague recollection of my mom doing some painting during the war, but I didn’t have much of a connection with her. The discovery of the photo and the upcoming theatrical production has sparked a new sense of purpose in me. I want to continue researching my mom’s story and writing her full history. I am particularly interested in understanding why Canadian workers, including my mother, continued to use toxic substances in an unprotected manner in the early 1940s.

Key points to consider:

• Don Dennison, a Vernon Powerhouse Theatre volunteer, discovered a connection to the Radium Girls through his research.
• The play is based on a true story and explores the struggles and triumphs of the women involved.
• The Radium Girls’ story is a testament to the power of human resilience and determination.
• Don Dennison plans to continue researching his mother’s story and writing her full history.

The play Radium Girls is a powerful and thought-provoking production that delves into the history of medical distress and death suffered by women who worked with radium in the 1920s. The play is a testament to the enduring legacy of these women, who fought for their rights and their lives. Don Dennison’s story highlights the importance of continuing to research and remember the past, and the impact it can have on our understanding of the present.