Jonathan Spector recently discussed his Broadway debut and the success of his play, “Eureka Day,” in an interview with KQED’s Brian Watt. Spector reflected on his journey from its inception to receiving a Tony nomination, sharing that his initial aim was to create a piece that resonated with local audiences in Berkeley. He expressed surprise and gratification at how well the play has been received beyond its original locale.
The play was written before the pandemic but has remained incredibly relevant, especially amidst ongoing discussions around vaccination. Spector mentioned that the idea for the play was sparked by observing conversations about vaccine hesitancy among people who otherwise shared similar values and beliefs. This disconnect became even more pronounced with the rise of politically charged discussions surrounding vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, changing the lens through which vaccine discussions are viewed today.
Spector highlighted how the political landscape affected the perception of vaccinations, transforming an initially non-political issue into a divisive topic aligned with political ideologies. He recalled his research interviewing public health experts, noting their perspective on the challenges of changing people’s views on vaccination.
Earlier this year, Spector’s production faced an unexpected situation when it was set to be staged at the Kennedy Center, only to be canceled after Donald Trump became chairman. While the Kennedy Center attributed the decision to financial reasons, Spector conveyed his mixed feelings about the impact of the center’s leadership change on his show. In hindsight, he expressed relief that things unfolded the way they did, despite the complexities involved.
Moreover, the honor of being dubbed a “Berkeley Chekov” by actor Bill Irwin showcases Spector’s significant contribution to theater, especially at a pivotal moment in his career. As Spector continues to navigate these challenges, there is a hopeful sentiment for the future of “Eureka Day,” suggesting that thoughtful dialogue around complex issues like vaccinations can foster understanding and connection among diverse audiences.