Simon Burke Embraces Solo Stage Challenge in Revival of 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.

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 takes a pivotal turn upon meeting 12-year-old acting prodigy Benjamin, who appears confident in his sexuality.

Acting, whether for Play School, Benjamin Franklin, or Moulin Rouge! The Musical, is fundamentally about truth.

Burke credits Play School with teaching him to be authentic and quick-thinking, skills he now applies to other roles, sometimes even incorporating playful movements. He acknowledges that his time on Play School also encouraged him to embrace silliness, particularly during craft segments where his less-than-perfect creations resonated genuinely with young viewers.

Tackling the Demands of a One-Man Show

Burke consistently seeks new acting challenges, and The Elocution of Benjamin Franklin presents the significant demand 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', specifically cast him for his skill, charisma, and ability to make a potentially difficult character endearing. Burke, for his part, was drawn to the role's theatricality, command of language, and the character's journey of disintegration.

After six years of planning and Burke's involvement in other significant productions like Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Wicked, and The Inheritance, the play is now being staged.

His role in The Inheritance, which included a 20-minute monologue, helped prepare Burke for the intense demands of a one-man show.

A Timely Revival and Poignant Return to Roots

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. This move brings the production back to its original 1976 premiere stage, then known as Nimrod Downstairs.

This return is particularly meaningful for Burke. 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.