Coming soon: A theatre performance about one of history’s most influential mathematicians

Emmy Noether (1882-1935) was one of the most influential mathematicians of the last century. Her works and teachings left a lasting mark on modern algebra, opening new avenues for a new structural perspective in mathematics. Noether was also one of the first women to gain the right to teach at a German university. She acquired that certification (Habilitation) on June 4, 1919, after submitting a thesis in which she solved one of the central problems in Einstein’s general theory of relativity. Her two celebrated theorems relating symmetries of variational problems and conservation laws of the field equations form the cornerstone of modern physical theories and beyond.

To celebrate the centenary of this event and the career of a unique personality in the history of mathematics, the ensemble Portrait Theater Vienna has produced a biographical play, Diving into Math with Emmy Noether. The production is directed by Sandra Schüddekopf and stars Anita Zieher as Emmy. The play is based on historical documents and events, and was written in cooperation with the historians Mechthild Koreuber and David E. Rowe. Further information can be found on the play’s website.

The University of Minnesota is pleased to announce that an English-language version of the play will be performed on Sept. 26, 2023 at 7 p.m. in Coffman Memorial Theater. Associated events are being planned to showcase the mathematical, scientific, and philosophical impact of Emmy Noether’s legacy.

Reserve your free performance ticket

The event is co-sponsored by the School of Mathematics, the School of Physics and Astronomy, the History of Science and Technology Program, and the Minnesota Center for Philosophy of Science.

Please direct questions about the event to mathdept@umn.edu.