Jonathan Biggins describes his play as “the first three-dimensional, unauthorised autobiography written by someone else.”
It is hard to disagree. As entertaining as this masterly performance is, it also offers a fascinating lesson in contemporary Australian political history through the eyes of one of its most erudite participants.
Biggins’ research and writing are exemplary, as are his observations and recreation of his subject’s physical and vocal mannerisms. He is also a brilliant character actor, with a chameleon-like ability to capture the essence of others; a skill he used to significant effect in the much-admired and now-lamented Wharf Revues.
In The Gospel According to Paul: The Second Coming, however, his portrayal of Paul Keating goes deeper. As the play unfolds and Biggins, as Keating, comments on current political issues, it becomes difficult to separate performer from subject, even as the production remains marvellously entertaining.
At the start of the performance, Keating addresses the audience from his elegantly appointed, Mark Thompson-designed office. He warns that there will be no personal revelations; instead, he will focus on his achievements, illustrated by a slideshow of significant moments.
No prime minister, colleague or public servant escapes his merciless barbs. Taking the audience into his confidence, he names names, assigns blame, and delivers assessments while tracing his journey from boyhood to the prime ministership and beyond.
Along the way, Keating reveals his admiration for Tom Jones and impersonates the singer performing his hit Delilah. He also displays previously unsuspected terpsichorean skills performing Pushing Up the Rent, a parody of Puttin’ on the Ritz, complete with high kicks.
Less surprising is the moment when he delves into his extensive record collection to share an excerpt from Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony.
The most revealing moment of all comes when Keating recalls meeting his future wife, Anita. Seemingly overcome with emotion, he pauses and struggles to regain his composure.
Biggins portrays the moment brilliantly and without words, revealing the humanity beneath Keating’s polished wit and urbane public persona and lifting the production beyond pure satire.
Sharp, insightful, and superbly performed, The Gospel According to Paul: The Second Coming is both a richly entertaining portrait of a formidable political figure and a thoughtful reflection on Australian public life.
Biggins’ wit, meticulous characterisation, and flashes of humanity make this much more than an impersonation. It is a compelling theatrical achievement.
The Gospel According to Paul: The Second Coming
The Playhouse – Canberra Theatre Centre, Civic Square, Canberra
Performance: Wednesday 16 September 2026
Season continues to 20 September 2026
Information and Bookings: www.canberratheatrecentre.com.au
The Gospel According to Paul will also be presented at the Newcastle Civic Theatre on Wednesday 23 September, the Playhouse – Arts Centre Melbourne from 20 October and Sydney Theatre Company from 5 November 2026.
Images: Jonathan Biggins in The Gospel According to Paul: The Second Coming – photos by Brett Boardman