Einstein's Gift Reviews

Chicago Reader - Recommended

"...Haber's is a cautionary tale with global implications, and while Canadian playwright Vern Thiessen's 2003 dramatization of Haber's rise and fall has its clunky moments, it gives big questions about personal and scientific responsibility deep resonance-as does Genesis Theatrical's stilted but earnest production, directed by Elayne LeTraunik. Thiessen shoehorns Einstein into the mix unsuccessfully, but his Huber is a towering tragic figure betrayed by his principles and his nation, compellingly captured in Chris Saunders's unstinting portrayal."

Around The Town Chicago - Recommended

"..."Einstein's Gift" tells the story of the development of nerve gas in WWI by chemist Fritz Haber (Chris Saunders). The parade of world events between the wars marches on as Haber has an ongoing conversation with frenemy Albert Einstein (Guy F. Wicke) about the scientist's responsibility to the applications of his inventions. They argue over the importance of pure versus applied science, which seems to stand in as the thin end of the wedge issue between them, even as it becomes increasingly clear that their argument is strictly academic. Scientific discoveries will be used for various applications, both civil and military, and today we've accepted this so thoroughly as to be arguing for the end of public support of general scientific discovery in favor of methods that assume use and applicability first."

Third Coast Review - Recommended

"...Einstein's Gift, the compelling new production being staged by Genesis Theatricals, is that most satisfying kind of play. It's rich with historical detail and scandal and ripe with questions for post-theater conversations."