Nearer the Gods

Take no-one’s word for it, if you want to know how good this World Premiere production is, seeing is believing.

Isaac Newton was one of the most influential scientists of all time. The publishing of his book on the laws of motion and universal gravitation changed scientific thinking on the design of the universe.

In Nearer the Gods, Australian playwright David Williamson explores the events leading up to the publishing of that book in the 17^th Century, filtering the story through the eyes of astronomer, mathematician and soon-to-be father Edmund Halley, played with sensitivity by Matthew Backer.

The narrative puts a strong human perspective on science theory with Newton (Rhys Muldoon) conflicting with his peers as they wrangle for a position in history.

In Williamson’s interpretation, Halley is the Earth to Newton’s Sun, giving Newton a focus and a reason to shine. Without Halley, the play suggests Newton may never have been convinced to publish his work.

To this script director Sam Strong adds the element of motion.

His characters swirl tables across the stage like planets fighting against Newton’s mind-bending laws.

The actors themselves are caught in the pull of Muldoon’s mania and brilliance as Newton. It is difficult even for the audience to resist it, and if you have ever tried to write or edit a thesis there are some classic moments in here just for you.

William McInnes gravitates between tyrannical boss and a kid in a toy store as King Charles II who surrounds himself with the most prominent minds of his time.

Kimie Tsukakoshi as Halley’s wife Mary anchors the play in reality as she fights for her own orbit among the scientific minds of her world.

There is brevity in Hsiao-Ling Tang’s support roles, but her huge personality from previous shows is visible in every quizzical brow and purposeful stride.

Colin Smith plays the main protagonist Robert Hooke with a desperate tenacity.

Daniel Murphy, Hugh Parker and Lucas Stibbard also play multiple roles. Parker’s Christopher Wren as the respected voice of reason is a particular standout.

With so much focus on the invisible force between objects, the newly refurbished Bille Brown Theatre must take a bow, welcoming Nearer the Gods on to stage after a $5.5 million transformation.

It is Brisbane’s first purpose-built corner stage and there are moments in this production when you don’t know where the audience finishes and the stage begins, you’re just sharing a space with great minds of theatre and history.

But like we said, take no-one’s word for it, see Nearer the Gods for yourself if you can.

Debra Bela

Photographer: Jeff Busby