The Eureka Day school prides itself on inclusion, “holding space for everyone,” as noted by one of its Board members. But what happens when those opinions are so diametrically opposed that consensus seems impossible?
Redbird Theater Company presented Jonathan Spector’s Eureka Day in the media room/library of East Chapel Hill High School, a spot-on setting for a sharp, biting comedy about a fictional private elementary school in California faced with an outbreak of mumps. The ensuing debate between anti-vaxers and those who heed CDC recommendations threatens to tear the school apart. It sounds eerily familiar. While a recent production just closed at the Manhattan Theatre Club, and a planned run scheduled for the Kennedy Center was cancelled for “financial circumstances,” the play was written in 2017. Maybe Spector has a crystal ball.
Upon first meeting, the school Board is welcoming a new member and discussing a parent’s suggestion to revise part of the school’s admission form. Suzanne (Jeri Lynn Schulke) embodies the “allied white woman” who believes she is embracing all viewpoints, yet clearly believes she knows the right way. Carina (Rasool Jahan), the newcomer and the Board’s only Black member, seems hesitant at first to challenge assertions. Don (Adam Traylor), husband to Suzanne, is bent on being the peacekeeper during dissension while also trying to maintain control as head of the school. Eli (Nick Popio), a wealthy techie who attempts to keep his Zen, and Meiko (Vanessa Nowik), on the sidelines, using her knitting to contain her frustrations, round out the group.
At first, these individuals seem like familiar stereotypes; they want to maintain consensus, keep the peace above all else. They compete to “out woke” one another while also not trying to offend. It’s progressiveness for sport, and who can outplay the other. Director Hope Hynes Love allows her talented cast to lean into these moments to great effect.
But the Board is now faced with having to make a decision that will not satisfy everyone. The virtual town hall that ensues quickly devolves into absurdity as the projected sidebar comments move from the ridiculous to the types of personal attacks and name-calling that are as comical as they are cruel. While the Board members attempt to continue some sort of dialogue, the chaos leaves the audience hurting from laughter.
The tone changes considerably in the second act when choices are shown to have immediate and personal consequences. It feels jarring, but necessary as the play unveils the source of various perspectives that form competing viewpoints. The characters become less caricatured and more nuanced, emphasized in the elevated performances by this ensemble.
There is no easy resolution, and Spector doesn’t condemn, preach, or take an easy way out. Instead, he fleshes out a topical debate with humor and empathy, which is the true strength of this play.
Eureka Day runs through May 24. For more information visit https://www.redbirdtheatercompany.com/.
