Perth Reviews

Jonathan Biggins has been delivering a version of Paul Keating for over twenty years, harking back to his days with the long running success of the Wharf Revue under the auspices of Sydney Theatre Company. Unsurprisingly for an actor of his calibre, in The Gospel According to Paul, Biggins delivers an extraordinary performance.

Biggins' finely observed mannerisms – the way his subject stands, walks, speaks and gestures, the sartorial elegance, the slight stoop and perfect delivery – create a fully rounded character, without a trace of mockery.

The play cleverly roams through Keating's upbringing with the use of an antiquated slide screen and intermittant projected images to illustrate his interactions with Labour luminaries, charting his rise through the Labour Party, the Whitlam years, the Dismissal, the return to government as Treasurer and eventually as Prime Minister. All interspersed with the cynical quips that became his trademark.

Directed by Aarne Neeme, and beautifully set in Keating's graceful office – complete with antique furniture, gold framed artworks and two ormulu clocks – this is an affectionate portrayal, witty and edgy, laced with passion for the ideals aspired to and ultimately dashed. His love of music is also explored via two vintage record players.

After an hour and a half, barely drawing breath, Biggins acknowledged a standing ovation from the crowd. An extremely satisfying hour and a half of theatre of the highest quality.