“Maxwell Caulfield’s complex and authoritative performance makes this a particularly absorbing one-man portrayal of one of history’s most enigmatic figures.”
Film, television and stage star Maxwell Caulfield takes the lead in PILATE: The Lost Gospel, from writer Michael Punter and director Asaad Kelada. Taking residence in The Pleasance Courtyard’s Above, the production examines the story of the Roman governor of Judaea, Pontius Pilate.
PILATE: The Lost Gospel takes us to Rome in 36 AD, where Pilate is summoned to relay the events that led up to and determined the fate of Jesus Christ. In this account, Pilate details his distinguished military career, his personal encounters with Christ, and the confused build-up to the events of the crucifixion.
Caulfield is the sole performer on stage, accompanied by the Roman standard, a wooden throne and a simple table. He faces the formidable task of delivering Pilate’s story as a 75-minute monologue, with no shortage of material to explore in this complex and multi-faceted portrayal of the enigmatic historical figure. The actor delivers a confident turn in the lead, demonstrating a mastery of the sheer content of the script, as well as a stellar performance that digs behind the bravado of the military man, unveiling a complex depth, a sense of guilt, unease and accountability in his role in the death of Christ.
Michael Punter’s wonderfully researched script sees Pilate narrate his story. The son of a blacksmith, he details his trials in Germania, beginning with a devastating attack and brutal defeat by German forces. Caulfield details these events with thrilling storytelling finesse, crafting rich images through his vivid and passionate delivery as Pilate. The military travails continue with Rome’s return to Germania, where blood-soaked vengeance provides some perspective on the story of Pilate.
The story of the last days of Christ gets a truly unique perspective in Punter’s version of events, told from Pilate’s side. The governor details the thankless task of moving to Judea and asserting Roman authority there. Here, PILATE: The Lost Gospel delves into Pilate’s wife being healed by Jesus and the full extent of his relationship with Judas, as well as a rundown of the events leading up to the crucifixion. The well-known gospel is given a fresh perspective from Pilate’s viewpoint, with Caulfield’s portrayal far deeper than the caricature of a Roman monster. There is an element of regret and sympathy in the work of the actor and scriptwriter, creating a fascinating and assertive fusion that ensures PILATE: The Lost Gospel grips for the full 75 minutes.
Effective musical cues, the use of narration from co-producer Juliet Mills, selective use of darkness, and the simple yet absorbing staging ensure this is a slick and atmospheric piece.
Ultimately, it is the historical perspective that makes PILATE: The Lost Gospel such an intriguing addition to the Fringe. Rather than simply retelling a familiar story, Punter’s script places Pilate at its centre and allows the audience to consider the events surrounding the crucifixion through the eyes of the man charged with making one of history’s most consequential decisions.
It is a compelling approach, brought to life by Maxwell Caulfield’s complex and authoritative performance. His command of the material, confident storytelling and ability to reveal the guilt and uncertainty beneath Pilate’s military exterior make this a particularly absorbing one-man performance.
Tickets to Pilate: The Lost Gospel are available here.
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