Charles Darwin shocked the world with his theory of evolution 155 years ago, and people are still arguing about it.
These impassioned discussions began right inside Darwin’s home, a story that playwright Sara Gmitterimagines in her new drama.
Making its world premiere at Lookingglass Theatre, “In the Garden: A Darwinian Love Story” is half romance, half intellectual debate. And really, the romance and the debate can’t be separated. Darwin—who upset so many Christians with his theory—was deeply in love with his wife, Emma, who was a devout Christian.
For Mr. and Mrs. Darwin, the question wasn’t simply whether the science of evolution could coexist with faith in Biblical beliefs. The question was also how two people with conflicting ideas could continue loving each other. The way Gmitter tells the story, the Darwins kept on talking and talking about their clashing concepts of the world, year after year, as they raised a family.
Despite all of that talking, “In the Garden” doesn’t feel like a college lecture. These are lively conversations, and the script does a smart job of bringing out the key points of how Darwin developed his theory—and why it was so radical and world changing. But the talk does go on a bit too long, unnecessarily pushing this show past the two-hour mark.
Andrew White, who has acted in many Lookingglass shows over the years and serves as the company’s artistic director, stars as Charles Darwin, bringing an earnest, likable personality to the role. As White portrays Darwin, the scientist feels compelled to say what he believes is true about the world, but he’s also sensitive to the fact that his ideas will upset other people—above all, his wife.
Rebecca Spence winningly plays Emma as a devoted Christian, wife and mother who is both kindhearted and unafraid to speak her mind. Despite their deep differences, Charles and Emma treat each other with honesty and respect, even if it’s all tinged with exasperation.
Like many productions with small casts, this one uses supporting actors to play multiple roles, which is just distracting here. And the script might benefit from some judicious trimming. But director Jessica Thebus’ production ends with a beautiful and tender sequence of events, leaving no doubt about the love between the Darwins.
“In the Garden: A Darwinian Love Story” continues through June 29 at Lookingglass Theatre, 821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. For tickets and show times, visit the theatre’s website or call 312-337-0665.
