In an era of abortion law reversals and IVF restrictions, one can find insight in history. A Child of Science, Gareth Farr’s new play, is set in the years from 1958 to 1978, and recounts how Patrick Steptoe, Robert Edwards, and Jean Purdy created life in vitro. Directed by Matthew Dunster, the production deftly balances hope, heartbreak, and humor. “A huge part of its success lies in the fact that we never seem to be in the throes of a lecture,” wrote Rachel Halliburton in The Times. The play tackles genetic theory and medical policy, but it also recognizes the many brave women who helped to create the world’s first IVF baby—Louise Brown. —Jeanne Malle