Jonathan Martin Biggins is an Australian actor, singer, writer, director, and comedian. He has appeared on film, stage and television as well as in satirical sketch comedy television programmes.
Among many colourful stories shared tonight, Jonathan also promoted his upcoming touring gig with Renaissance Tours in New York next year in January 2026.
John also shared his recent exchange with Paul Keating. John was summoned to come alone without a producer to Paul’s office where all kinds of treasures were discussed as Paul is into more than clocks or French antique furniture…
After twenty-five years in the harsh and unforgiving spotlight of politics, The Wharf Revue has decided to step away from public life. “It's an opportunity to spend more time with family. At the end of the day, this is about the need for renewal.”
Jonathan Biggins
Actor, writer and director, Jonathan Biggins, will discuss satire, its relevance and the challenges it faces in the modern world.
The American playwright George S Kaufman famously said “Satire is what closes on Saturday night”. The 25 year run of the Wharf Revue might have proved him wrong but can satire survive in an increasingly bizarre world? It’s difficult to speak truth to power when truth is tenuous at best. But perhaps in a world increasingly dominated by technology and the few who control it, the intrinsically human need for comedy and our innate satisfaction at seeing the rug pulled from under those in power will become even more important. Discuss in 250 words or less, no AI allowed.
About Jonathan Biggins
Jonathan is an actor, writer and director, perhaps best known as a co-creator of The Wharf Revue and his one-man play about Paul Keating, The Gospel According to Paul. His plays include Australia Day and Talk and he has performed with all the state theatre and opera companies. He lives in Balmain, naturally.
Thursday 12 June 2025, 6.30pm for 7pm start at the Balmain Town Hall Library (rear of the Town Hall).
Venue: Balmain Town Hall
Uncle Bob Webb Chambers
(former Meeting room)
Renaissance Tours
Experience one of the world’s greatest art and theatre destinations, New York City, with its expansive art collections and celebrated theatre stages.
At a Glance
- Marvel at expansive art collections and enjoy private guided tours at renowned museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA
- Attend performances by some of the world’s leading performers in New York City’s iconic venues
- Enhance your appreciation of the shows with pre-performance talks with your tour leader, theatre expert and art enthusiast Jonathan Biggins
Over ten days, enjoy musical performances and drama theatre, and explore iconic sites in the Big Apple such as Times Square and Central Park. Take private, guided visits to renowned museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA, to delve into world-class collections.
Enhance your experience with exclusive pre-performance discussions with your tour leader, actor, writer and director Jonathan Biggins, and engage with local experts and artists during New York City’s prime theatre season.
Please click ‘Register Interest’ to receive further information when more details are available.
This tour is part of the World Art Tours program organised by the Art Gallery Society of NSW in partnership with Renaissance Tours.
DATES
January 2026 (10 days)
TOUR LEADER
A Bite of the Big Apple | January 2026 (10 days)
Testimonials:
“An ideal guide, raconteur and wonderful fellow traveller.”
Morris E. | Behind the Scenery, 2018
“A most entertaining and helpful tour leader who could not do enough for everyone in the group.”
Margot D. | Behind the Scenery, 2018
