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"Spontaneity is like democracy. It needs to be kept under control," remarks one of the characters in Sydney Theatre Company's latest production. Likewise, this play, which reunites acclaimed long-time collaborators, playwright Michael Frayn and director Michael Blakemore, is a very calculated, precise affair.
Beginning in 1969, when Chancellor Willy Brandt becomes post-war West Germany's first left leader in 40 years, it covers the relationship between Brandt, and his unassuming assistant, Günter Guillame, who is actually a spy for the East Germans. Initial suspicion about Guillame is raised, but never strongly upheld.
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Brandt is meant to be ambiguous – a peacemaker who has clean hands – but we're also told he's a charmer and this charisma never is realised. Although superbly played by Philip Quast, he's essentially a blank canvas, and it is hard to be fascinated by a play where a void gets top billing.
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