The Musical We Had To Have Is Back In Town

Illawarra Mercury

Wednesday June 25, 2008

By MICHELLE WEBSTER

IT'S official - Paul Keating has a sense of humour.

Last night the musical comedy Keating! returned to the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre after a sold-out Wollongong season in 2007.

Mike McLeish, who plays the title role, said among the show's legions of fans is the man himself.

"He's like a groupie - he's been four times," he said.

"He's clever enough to know he gets the piss taken out of him as much as anyone in the show."

Despite playing the infamous former prime minister for more than three years, McLeish insists he never tires of the role.

"There's something about singing out the front of a really great band and being on stage with a great group of people," he said.

"It's almost like a panto when John Howard comes on stage and the audience are all booing and hissing."

Enio Pozzebon, who plays Gareth Evans, said he wasn't sure the former foreign minister would find his portrayal amusing.

"I don't think Gareth would appreciate the beautiful love ballad with Cheryl Kernot," he said.

Keating! will be at the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre until Sunday.