Early reviews have been strong for a theater production in Cameron Park about the 18th-century scientific visionary Emilie du Chatelet, the woman who worked alongside Voltaire co-authoring “Elements of Newton’s Philosophy” in 1738. With a script from award-winning playwright Lauren Gunderson, the play seeks to illuminate Chatelet’s long-downplayed and intentionally obscured role in the development of Enlightenment understanding. The production, directed Chloe Bronzan, is playing at The Stage at Burke Junction and offers a chance for audiences to meet the French genius in the flesh as she answers the question she died with: love or philosophy, head or heart?

Starring Atim Udoffia, “Emilie: La Marquise Du Châtelet Defends Her Life Tonight” has been described as a dramatic, fast, funny and sexy rediscovery of one of Europe’s most intriguing women. The concept of its story revolves around Chatelet defending her life and loves; and ending up with both a formula and a legacy that permeates history. It has its final run this weekend, through July 24, with its Friday and Saturday performances at 8 p.m. and its Sunday show at 2 p.m. For more information or to purchase tickets visit stageatburke.com. The Stage at Burke Junction is located at 3300 Coach Lane, e1, in Cameron Park.