Emilie La Marquise Du Châtelet Defends Her Life Tonight

Emilie La Marquise Du Châtelet Defends Her Life Tonight, the debut production of Anatomical Heart Productions, is a fascinating story about a brilliant woman, overlooked by history. Beautifully presented, this cleverly constructed story is well directed and told with intelligence and style.

This brilliant 18th century philosopher, scientist and mathematician was a lover of Voltaire, controversial and a gambler. In this play, a now dead Marquise looks back at her life with commentary and thought. Overtly and unapologetically theatrical, this production draws you into 1700s France, with its well-acted ensemble performance. A wonderful examination of the science involved in Emilie’s story, blended nicely with a retrospective look art love and life - I feel that the actors really understood the science involved - perhaps unsurprising given that several actors and director Michelle Ezzy, have science backgrounds.

Kate O’Sullivan is excellent as protagonist and narrator Emilie, beautifully conveying her depth of mind, passion and sense of being ahead of her time. Joanna Tyler also plays the same character - with outstanding facial expression and expert physicalisation.