Madras HS Students bring labor history to life with ‘These Shining Lives’ production

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Madras High School students are presenting "These Shining Lives," a play based on the true story of the Radium Girls. The production is scheduled for two runs in May: May 8 through 10 and May 15 through 16.

The play chronicles the lives of young women in early 1900s Chicago who worked for a company using radium paint. Unaware of its dangerous toxicity, these women experienced declining health. Their subsequent fight for justice was instrumental in sparking significant changes in workplace safety regulations. The show explores a crucial turning point in labor history, revealing the real-life impact behind many worker protections enforced today.

General admission tickets for the production are priced at $12. For special Mother's Day performances, tickets will be available at half price.

The remaining performances are scheduled for May 8 through 10 and May 15 through 16.