The Spark of Reason

Synopsis: In Amsterdam, Holland, Baruch (Benedict) Spinoza raises fears in the community that his radical views will create a new Inquisition among the Jews of Holland. Spinoza's angry and jealous sister, Rebekah de Caceres, raises the charge of heresy against her brother in order to destroy him and enable her to inherit their father's business. The leaders of the Jewish community see the charge of heresy as a device for ridding themselves of the young troublemaker. Spinoza falls in love with Clara van den Ende, an outspoken, liberated woman. She attempts to move him away from his intellectual pursuits and his dogged determination to do what he believes is right. Failing that, she abandons him to the wrath of the community. Spinoza's teacher, Saul Levi Morteira, tries to convince him to recant. When the young man refuses, Morteira becomes his chief inquisitor at a trial testing Spinoza and everyone connected to him.

Notes: Publisher: JAC Publishing ISBN 1-60513-041-0 www.jacpub.com/Full-Length/Halperin_Spark.htm JEWISH JOURNAL of Greater Los Angeles, April 25, 2008 (THEATER)_Love, deceit, betrayal and political corruption are all themes coursing through the veins of the heart-racing play, "The Spark of Reason." A sister's revenge can be brutal. Throw in a lover's deception and a teacher's betrayal to the historic 24-year-old Baruch Spinoza's trial for heresy in 1656 -- carried out by the Jewish community in Amsterdam -- and you've got one blisteringly dramatic play. An eclectic cast will rile your deepest emotions in a staged reading written and directed by Michael Halperin, inspired by a true story. Sun. 3 p.m. Through May 18. Promenade Playhouse, 1404 Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica.