Kate Herbert, Herald Sun 12/02/10

Farragut North (Feb 3 - March 6) by Beau Willimon.  Directed by Kim Durban.

THE zesty dialogue crackles with wit and adrenalin in Farragut North, by Beau Willimon.

The play dives headlong into the secretive world of a political campaign to choose the US Democratic presidential candidate. It is a world of spin doctors, ambitious interns, fawning assistants, cut-throat journalists and competing party factions.

If you're a West Wing fan, you'll know an hour is a very long time in politics. Careers and reputations are ruined in minutes with an ill-chosen word or a secret meeting.

Willimon worked on political campaigns, including that of Senator Hillary Clinton, and his knowledge gives authenticity to his avengers' tragedy-style plotting. Give them swords and kings to overthrow and it could be Shakespeare.

Brett Cousins is driven and hard-headed as Stephen, 25-year-old press secretary for a presidential candidate, Morris. David Whiteley plays, with battle-weary assurance, Stephen's boss Paul, the campaign warhorse who demands loyalty (though Whiteley appears a little too fit and youthful).

Stephen wrangles voracious Times journalist Ida, played with steely determination by Karen Roberts. Lucy Honigman is sassy and confident as a clever intern, Molly, who seduces her bosses. Tim Potter is marvellously understated as the lurking deputy press secretary, Ben, who Stephen ignores to his detriment.

Their candidate looks set to win - until the opposition's campaign manager, Tom (Kurt Geyer) enters the scene.

Willimon's script is cleverly crafted with plenty of twists. Kim Durban's direction of this accomplished cast is assured. Peter Mumford's design is cool and flexible and the entire production gives the impression of a rarefied world of conspiracy and menace. This play is funny, challenging, superbly acted and inventively plotted. Aaron Sorkin must be jealous! 

Lucy Honigman and Brett Cousins in Farragut North. Pic: Jodie Hutchinson.