Digging up Dessa

November 3, 2022

Presented by Lexington Children's Theatre | Grades 4-8
Curriculum Connections: Paleontology, Women's History, The Scientific Method, Friendship

By Laura Schellhardt

Dessa is 12-years-old with mysteries to solve and fossils to find. In the aftermath of her father’s death, this smart and funny young scientist is struggling to overcome her grief. Dessa’s unlikely comfort comes from a remarkable new friend, one only she can see and hear – Mary Anning, the 19th-century paleontologist. But why is Mary’s portrait not on the museum wall alongside those of her male counterparts? Dessa fights to earn Mary the respect she deserves by unearthing secrets of the past and present- for Mary's legacy and her own way forward.

Length of show: 75 minutes