The play A Child of Science, directed by Matthew Dunster, explores the groundbreaking development of IVF. The story revolves around the interactions between Robert Edwards, Patrick Steptoe, and Jean Purdy, portrayed by Tom Felton, Jamie Glover, and Meg Bellamy respectively. The play is currently showing at Bristol Old Vic until July 6th.
While the play captures the scientific achievement, it often feels like a series of scenes featuring men in scientific pursuits. The female characters in the play serve primarily as supporting roles, their complexities and struggles touched upon but not fully explored. Issues of class and gender are only briefly addressed, as the focus remains on the male scientists and their achievements.
Unfortunately, much of the rest of the play feels somewhat routine in its portrayal of the events leading to the first IVF baby in 1978. However, towards the end of the play, there is a poignant and devastating scene that evokes tears from the audience. Huddersfield housewife Margaret, portrayed brilliantly by Adelle Leonce, receives unwelcome news in her role as Patient 38. Her reaction is filled with grace and heroism.
The play sensitively explores the emotional and significant subject matter. Despite its shortcomings in fully exploring personal and societal implications of IVF’s groundbreaking work
