Simon Burke Stars in The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin
Veteran actor Simon Burke is currently rehearsing for his latest play, The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin, a one-man show by Steve J Spears. Burke, who previously hosted ABC TV's Play School for 19 years (1988-2007), sometimes finds himself incorporating elements from his children's television experience into his current role.
Burke's diverse acting background, from children's television to musical theatre, influences his challenging new one-man show.
A Hidden Life in 1970s Sydney
In the play, Burke portrays Robert O'Brien, an elocution teacher in 1970s Sydney. Robert is a gay man who conceals his identity during a period when homosexuality was not yet decriminalized in New South Wales (decriminalized in 1984). His life changes upon meeting 12-year-old acting prodigy Benjamin, who appears confident in his sexuality.
The Enduring Lessons of Play School
Burke notes that acting, whether for Play School, Benjamin Franklin, or Moulin Rouge! The Musical, is fundamentally about truth. He credits Play School with teaching him to be authentic and quick-thinking, and even incorporating playful movements into other roles. He acknowledges that Play School also encouraged him to embrace silliness, particularly with craft segments where his less-than-perfect creations resonated with young viewers.
Embracing the Challenge of a Solo Performance
Burke consistently seeks new acting challenges. The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin presents the unique challenge of being alone on stage for over 90 minutes. The play, which premiered in Sydney in 1976 and gained international recognition, was brought to Burke's attention by director Declan Greene in 2020. Greene, who previously worked with Burke on The Homosexuals, or 'Faggots', cast him for his skill, charisma, and ability to make a potentially difficult character endearing. Burke was drawn to the role's theatricality, command of language, and the character's journey of disintegration.
Six Years in the Making
After six years of planning and Burke's involvement in other significant productions like Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Wicked, and The Inheritance, The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin is now being staged. Burke's experience in The Inheritance, which included a 20-minute monologue, helped prepare him for the demands of a one-man show.
A Timely Revival and a Meaningful Return
Director Declan Greene believes 2026 is the appropriate time to revive The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin, citing a rise in what he terms "moral hysteria" and the demonization of queer people. The play's 50th anniversary coincides with Griffin Theatre Company temporarily moving to Belvoir St Theatre's downstairs space, bringing the production back to its original 1976 premiere stage (then known as Nimrod Downstairs). This return is particularly meaningful for Burke, as it is the same theatre where he made his professional stage debut at age 13 in 1974, auditioning for the same director who helmed the original Benjamin Franklin production.