The Wharf Revue, now in its eight year draws upon some familiar characters to provide Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe and Phil Scott with a great comedic platform to lampoon our politicians and media figures.

Beware of the Dogma delves into both the federal election and the endemic consumer society in which we find ourselves. The strength of this production is equally balanced between some intelligent scripting and some excellent impersonations from both sides of politics. This show is a great example of the expression “It’s funny because it’s true”.

It’s the smaller touches to the script like the introduction to Valerie Badder’s impersonation of Mary Kostakidis as she embarks on her first foray since leaving SBS at the punchbowl RSL that add a polished finish to the satirical intent. Badder’s Julia Gillard is her best character of the night and completes the ALP scout camp.

The best impersonations have come about from the Revue team having spent years doing prime ministers Howard and Keating. Jonathon Biggins’ Keating in the inaugural Robyn Nevin Memorial Lecture is the most enjoyable skit of evening both because of Biggins’ uncanny likeness to the man and also because the witticisms are on the whole extremely believable. Phil Scott’s multiple appearances as Howard both on Youtube and in his bunker modelled off Hitler’s last days rely more on very simple costuming and exaggeration to portray exactly what the audience expect until the final twist in the sketch.

There is more than just a return of prime ministers past as Phil Scott also shows that Rudd will be under the microscope for years to come. As part of the ALP scout camp, Rudd’s method of asking himself what he is about to talk about, is a fantastic entrée to the stating of the obvious, (and something we may now have the real pleasure of experiencing.)

Not to be outdone by his co-writers, Drew Forsythe’s ‘Call of the Ratzingzer Stakes’ while seemingly having a field of thousands, including some completely uncalled place getters, is a real treat for the punters in the audience.

The only let down is the last sketch, while appealing to the vast majority you have difficulty following or wanting to understand it. With modern theatre and self-absorption as its central theme, it does not provide a neat close to the mainly political proceedings.

The Good: Impersonations are top shelf
The Bad: Not editing the last sketch
The Vibe: Political and social satire

Sydney Theatre Company, Wharf 2 until 29 December 2007