The Gospel According to Paul: The Second Coming Review
Arts Centre Melbourne | Playhouse
Sharp-tongued, quick-witted and gloriously unapologetic, Jonathan Biggins brings former Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating roaring back to life in The Gospel According to Paul: The Second Coming, a fast-paced theatrical romp through Australian politics, colourful personalities and plenty of political mischief.
From the moment Biggins takes to the stage, the political punches come thick and fast. Opening with a hilarious swipe at modern-day politics, nobody is safe from his razor-sharp tongue. Pauline Hanson, Anthony Albanese and a host of political figures find themselves in the firing line as Biggins delivers one cheeky observation after another, much to the delight of the audience.
Part stand-up comedy, part theatrical biography, this one-man production sees Biggins command the stage with remarkable energy. His interaction with the audience adds another layer of fun, with spontaneous exchanges, perfectly timed remarks and plenty of swearing thrown in for good measure. The colourful language comes thick and fast, with Biggins delivering some gloriously foul-mouthed observations that leave the audience roaring with laughter.
The story then winds back to Keating’s early years, exploring his upbringing, family life and eventual rise through the political ranks. It’s a whirlwind journey through Australian political history, delivered at a cracking pace with plenty of laughs along the way.
Among the more outrageous moments is a projected photograph of former Prime Minister Bob Hawke sporting a rather revealing pair of budgie smugglers. It’s an image that proves wonderfully distracting, with Hawke’s rather prominent package almost stealing the show as it seemingly follows Biggins around the stage.
There are also a few unexpected musical moments, including a wonderfully daggy rendition of Tom Jones’ Delilah. Watching Biggins playfully swivel his hips with exaggerated swagger and some hilariously questionable dance moves was an absolute highlight, providing a welcome burst of silliness amid the political commentary.
But beneath the biting humour and larger-than-life personality, there are moments of genuine emotion. Recalling the sudden death of Keating’s father during his childhood, Biggins briefly strips away the bravado, offering a glimpse of the vulnerability behind the famously formidable political figure.
Biggins is remarkably convincing as Keating, capturing his distinctive voice, mannerisms and commanding presence with impressive precision. From the sharp delivery to the unmistakable swagger, he embodies the former Prime Minister so convincingly that it’s easy to forget you’re watching an impersonation.
There’s no denying this is a production packed with political references, and at times the relentless pace leaves little room to catch your breath. Those less familiar with Australia’s political history may find themselves working to keep up, but the energy rarely falters.
Holding an audience’s attention for 90 minutes is no small feat, yet Biggins does it with seemingly effortless confidence. The laughter was frequent, the audience enthusiastic and the applause well deserved.
The Gospel According to Paul: The Second Coming is a lively, cheeky and often outrageous celebration of one of Australia’s most colourful political personalities. For political enthusiasts, it’s an absolute feast, while those simply looking for a laugh will find plenty to enjoy in Biggins’ wonderfully entertaining performance.
Season: 20 October – 1 November 2026
Venue: Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne
Tickets: Arts Centre Melbourne – The Gospel According to Paul: The Second Coming
Tickets: Arts Centre Melbourne – https://www.artscentremelbourne.com.au/whats-on/2026/comedy/the-gospel-according-to-paul
Review by Craig Lawson.
