In Stockbridge, Massachusetts, the thought-provoking play “Photography 51” by Anna Ziegler offers a poignant exploration of the consequences of single-mindedness and excessive ambition. Despite the seemingly mundane topic of the race to unravel the structure of DNA, the Berkshire Theatre Group’s production, which premiered in London with Nicole Kidman, defies expectations. Running on the Unicorn Stage until July 1st, this play captivates audiences.
Set at the end of World War II, the play follows Rosalind Franklin, a brilliant yet challenging scientist who concludes her doctoral work on coal and is recruited to King’s College London due to her proficiency in taking atomic-level X-ray photos. There, she collaborates with Maurice Wilkins and Raymond Gosling on understanding the intricacies of DNA while James Watson and Francis Crick from Cambridge University fervently pursue the same goal.
Despite the fame of Watson and Crick, their female counterpart, Rosalind Franklin, remains relatively unknown. “Photograph 51” draws attention to Franklin’s contributions, highlighted by an X-ray image of DNA that eventually led Watson and Crick to construct their groundbreaking double-helix model. To say they “stole” her idea may be an oversimplification, but it is not entirely untrue.
Franklin’s meticulousness in her scientific approach and her reluctance to hypothesize and potentially be wrong hindered her progress. She was also an uncompromising and solitary individual who guarded her research fiercely. As a Jewish woman in post-war England, working in a predominantly male field, Franklin faced immense adversity. She may have exhibited characteristics associated with Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism.
Under the skillful direction of David Auburn, BTG’s associate artistic director and Pulitzer Prize-winning author of the math-centric play “Proof,” “Photograph 51” delivers a thought-provoking and emotion-filled portrayal of academic and scientific battles. The simple circular set design resembles a boxing ring, symbolizing the confrontations that take place. The outstanding cast, particularly Rebecca Brooksher as Franklin and David Adkins as Wilkins, deliver superb performances.
Brooksher masterfully portrays Franklin’s brilliance while also portraying her off-putting personality, which undoubtedly contributed to her inability to achieve the final breakthrough in DNA research. Adkins skillfully embodies Wilkins, attempting to build a personal connection with Franklin in addition to their professional collaboration. Supported by Brandon Dial’s portrayal of Gosling, the likable grad student serves as the story’s Greek chorus and relatable figure. Tedder impressively captures the brazenness of the young American Watson, who would go on to prove himself not only as a scientific genius but also as a deeply flawed individual. Coulson and Anthony round out the cast, portraying Crick and a young scientist who forms a personal connection with Franklin.
Rosalind Franklin passed away at the age of 37 in 1958. Her contributions to our understanding of DNA were largely overshadowed, suppressed, or unrecognized for many years. However, she has since become an icon of feminism, with ongoing debates about her true legacy. Only recently, Nature published an essay arguing that she should be seen as an “equal player” rather than simply exploited.
Nevertheless, the fact remains that the men in this story lived considerably longer lives than Franklin. This disparity is undeniably unjust.
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