Albert Einstein: Reluctant Superstar is the second part of George Capaccio’s two-part dramatization.
George Capaccio as Albert Einstein
Like the first part — Albert Einstein: Relatively Speaking — part two can be scheduled independently. Part one emphasizes Einstein’s development of the special theory of relativity and his efforts to enlarge this theory to encompass the effects of gravity, which led ultimately to the general theory of relativity.
Part two begins with confirmation of Einstein’s new theory of gravity at a time when the world was still in shock from the turmoil of World War I and searching for a new vision, a new way forward. Einstein’s discovery came at just the right time and catapulted him into worldwide superstar status. Reluctant Superstar explores Einstein’s efforts to to promote his revolutionary ideas and to advance the cause of peace.
Throughout his life, Einstein was opposed to war and the use of violent means to resolve conflicts. During the 1920s, he alerted the world to the dangers of German rearmament and remained committed to pacifism. However, at home his staunch opposition to German nationalism and his growing influence made him a target of right-wing politicians. With Hitler’s rise to power, Einstein became an “enemy of the state” who had to be eliminated one way or the other. In Reluctant Superstar, actor George Capaccio presents the circumstances that compelled this great scientist to leave his homeland and seek refuge in the United States, where he continued his work in theoretical physics and his commitment to social justice.
Another Thumbs Up for George’s Performance as Albert Einstein!
“Albert Einstein came to life on the NewBridge(on the Charles) stage tonight! George Capaccio entertained the audience as Albert Einstein, inviting them into ‘his’ home on Mercer Ave in Princeton, N.J, sharing stories about “his” life with reflection and humor. At the end of the performance, NewBridge members became participants in the story, asking Professor Einstein questions about science and his opinion about unfolding world events in 2016. George’s answers reflected how well he had prepared and his ability to stay in character. It was an entertaining and informative evening!”
Carol Gallagher, Program Coordinator, NewBridge on the Charles, Dedham, MA 02026
“I want to say thank you for … yesterday’s Einstein presentation to the OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute) membership. I was told by multiple OLLI members who stopped by my office afterward that the presentation was remarkable, and they truly enjoyed it.
Jonathan R. Draper, Interim Director, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Connecticut
