Eureka Day is having a charmed run at the moment, having burst back into the public consciousness with a Tony Award winning revival on Broadway. The production has also made its way to Australia for a short season at the Seymour Centre, produced by Outhouse Theatre Co. With many theatre companies in Sydney opting for the classics in this year’s seasons, it is quite refreshing to have an unashamedly modern work in the mix. 

The play is set in a school and follows a parent’s association, who meet to discuss all issues related to the business of their children’s education. After a mumps outbreak at the school, the play quickly descends into farce, as parents rebel and the school becomes fiercely divided over vaccination policy. 

Humour is central to this play and this production manages this extremely well. One lengthy scene in the middle of the play is particularly impressive in this regard, showcasing a virtual town hall complete with amusing comments popping up on a fake zoom screen. The production makes a clear choice to blend modern day elements like the integration of technology with the play and this works particularly well, resonating with the audience. 

The play is also quite poignant, revealing a lot about ego, the human psyche and assumptions, constantly unveiling more information about the characters causing the audience to go back and forth with their sympathies. It is an incredibly clever construction and is incredibly effective in its execution. 

For the play to work, the acting also has to be strong and in this case, all the characters deliver fantastic performances. Jamie Oxenbould, Katrina Retallick, Deborah An, Christian Charisiou and Branden Christine are all incredibly assured, with Christine and Retallick particularly standing out. Oxenbould is as strong as ever, packing a real punch in the climax of the show to accentuate the dramatic tension. As a character study, each actor explores their role with depth, resulting in a thought-provoking performance. 

Overall, this is a fantastic show and definitely refreshing in the Sydney theatre scene. It feels modern and poignant, with superb direction and great acting. Everything is carefully considered and constructed and it is an excellent watch. Highly recommended. 

Rating: ★★★★1/2

Eureka Day plays at the Seymour Centre until 21^st June. For more information, click here.

All photo credits: Richard Farland