What is the point of being heard, if it’s only to be “other-ed”.
Such is the topic du jour as an ultra-progressive school’s executive committee considers whether or not to add transracial adoptee to the drop down list for race. These Berkeley parents are as passionate about political correctness as they are about consensus-driven decision making and flagging failures to use gender neutral pronouns. In this crowd, even bringing gluten free scones isn’t an inoculation if disposable plates, even compostable ones, accompany them.
All is perfectly civil until things go nuclear during a Facebook Live meeting that’s facilitated on stage and shared overhead. It’s a free for all where no one brings their best selves. Fortunately, we're along for the ride and you’re sure to recognize yourself in the gory, graphic and hilarious comments. Hint: you may not like what you see.
This is a tight and talented ensemble that doesn’t miss a beat as they alternately bicker and battle. Great to see Elizabeth Carter (Carina) back at the Aurora—her journey from newcomer to strident voice is a powerful one. Ditto for the unpacking of Suzanne’s (Lisa Anne Porter) issues—the foundations of her barely masked anxiety take on a life of their own.
Eureka Day is theatre at its best—evoking empathy while poking fun at ourselves as we navigate a new, consensus-free normal.
Now through May 13, ticket here.
Photo: David Allen
From left: Lisa Anne Porter, Elizabeth Carter, Rolf Saxon, Teddy Spencer and Charisse Loriaux in Jonathan Spector's Eureka Day.