Babel Reviews

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"...Nevertheless, the play addresses significant ethical questions through the lens of an imaginary, yet plausible, future. Since 2020, when Redtwist first planned to produce it, the legislative landscape surrounding reproduction has drastically changed in the U.S. — not in ways that directly parallel the world of “Babel,” but enough to make its concerns about individual autonomy all the more urgent."

Chicago Reader - Recommended

"...What draws you into Redtwist’s Babel (directed by Rinska Carrasco-Prestinary) is the uncanny nature of the unfolding scenes. Moments of gentle kindness between soon-to-be parents quickly transform into suspicious paranoia. When you’re finally given a chance to breathe, more fully understanding the world’s eugenics phenomenon, another complication arises. By the end, all you are left with is a deep sense of dread that we are slowly approaching this Tower of Babel sort of reality. But there’s also a deeper hope that we can topple the tower ourselves."

Around The Town Chicago - Somewhat Recommended

"...Nevertheless, I do not fault the playwright and the theatre company for their valiant attempt to show what dangers may lurk when individuals are forced by a cruel and unyielding State to do things against their will and against their own best interest. Considering all the rationalizations and explanations that went into setting up this dystopia, I wanted to like the play more than I did."

Third Coast Review - Highly Recommended

"...Survival of the fittest means that a species that adapts to its environment will be the best suited to reproduce—aka Darwinism. Playwright Jacqueline Goldfinger’s Babel presents a dystopian view of the fittest. It is a disturbing play that has some truth to it in the present day as we see politicians and those in power looking to solve society’s many ills. Violence, infirmity, and disorders of the body and the mind—including racism and homophobia—are considered imperfections in Babel. The medical profession and the government vigorously test anyone who wants to have a child and certify the pregnancy as viable to be part of the new society."

Life and Times - Highly Recommended

"...In its second production of the 2023 theatrical season, Redtwist Theatre presents the biting dramatic play Babel by Jacqueline Goldfinger. It is the Chicago premier for the playwright, and what a premier it is."

Picture This Post - Recommended

"...Stellar performances and a thought-provoking script make Babel a story of the moment. If you are one who gravitates towards stories that make you wonder about the world around you, then this is the play for you."

NewCity Chicago - Not Recommended

"...Unfortunately, the execution is less compelling than the premise. A flawed script and histrionic production add up to an experience that’s more emotionally manipulative than thought-provoking."