Truman and the Birth of Israel Reviews
Chicago Reader- Somewhat Recommended
"...Spatz and director Randy White proceed to open that can of worms, in what I guess must be an attempt to (a) evoke Truman's complexity and (b) justify the existence of Israel. Some interesting stuff slithers out. I didn't know (and this part's true) that Harry's wife, Bess, refused to allow Jews across her threshold, even though Harry's prepolitics business partner was Jewish. But the overall impression is of a squirming mess of polemics trying to pass for drama. An awkward last-minute attack on the audience's Holocaust heartstrings is worse than merely maudlin or failed—it's grotesque."
Windy City Times- Somewhat Recommended
"...It's fascinating history but rather detailed and picayune, especially when Truman and Muller dissect complex post-WWII Palestine policy and politics. The result is an impassioned play to be sure, but not a good play. For example, playwright William Spatz recounts considerable Truman biographical information, ostensibly to prepare his legal defense, but much of it has been covered theatrically well before this, and much of it is unconnected to Israeli history. The play may need a narrower focus."
Chicago Theatre Review- Recommended
"...David Cohen’s historical play is stuffed with more information than many audiences will be able to absorb. Depending upon the individual theatergoer’s age, background and interest in history, this production may simply overwhelm. But patrons who enjoy a play that enlightens and piques their interest to learn more will greatly enjoy this production. The powerful payoff that occurs in the play’s the final scene is certainly worth the journey."
Chicago Theater and Arts- Somewhat Recommended
"...In short, there were a lot of moving parts that included a number of missteps and poor judgments by Truman which may or may not have been purposeful or subconscious. Clearly some were misinformed and misguided, especially when viewed with the benefit of hindsight."