A Review
by Lin McNulty
Einstein in contemplation. Photo: Chris Thomerson
Tony Lee as Einstein was a match made from the depths of a quantum formula.
Einstein: A Stage Portrait is a sweet, adorable, and endearing presentation of the recognizable and recognized genius from the 20th Century. The play takes place in Einstein’s Princeton, NJ home in the year 1946 as he reflects upon his life and shares his thoughts with the audience.
With a twinkle or a tear in his eye, Lee’s performance is captivating. The character, a pacifist from early childhood, relates personal details from his life, including his troubling connection with the atom bomb.
There is also enough science in this staged reading to entertain us nerds. I might say that for a brief moment tonight, given Einstein’s explanation, I understood the Theory of Relativity.
Actors Theater director Doug Bechtel could not have foreseen (could he?) the significance of presenting this play in light of the announcement this week of the possible discovery of the Higgs Boson that may well explain the mass of the entire universe.
Einstein continues at The Grange on Saturday July 7 and Friday-Sunday July 13-15 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 and are available at Darvills Bookstore, on line at www.orcasactors.com, or at the door. For additional information, contact the director, Doug Bechtel at 317-5601. This play is suitable for all ages.
Casting Tony Lee in the part was an act of genius.
Brilliant review. Can’t wait to see the performance.
This play is not about science, it is about the humanity of an icon of science. You’ll enjoy Tony Lee’s portrayal of a seemly simple character who had the audacity to suggest revolutionary ideas… and the consequences.