Tomfoolery
Loaded Productions
La Boheme
Until Sun 9 March


La Boheme, the funny little cabaret/cocktail lounge on Grote Street, hosts Loaded Production's South Australian premiere of 'Tomfoolery', an adaptation of Tom Lehrer's words and music. Famous for his controversial satirical party songs, he cleverly poked fun at 1950s/60s America with wit and infamous bad taste.
Originally the brainchild of Cameron Mackintosh, 'Tomfoolery' debuted in London in 1980. Although the jokes were a little dated, the performers were clearly having fun and that relaxed the audience, allowing us to enjoy the performance for what it was - a retrospective and appreciative tribute to a great satirist. It was interesting to hear Tom Lehrer's work, which was exceedingly offensive in its time, performed in a modern context. He explored and invariably insulted taboo topics such Werner von Braun (the ex-Nazi affiliated rocket scientist adopted by America), introduction of the New Math system and of course the old favourite, religion.
Loaded Productions added in some contemporary references in hopes to keep satire relevant, and it worked, producing appreciative reactions from the mostly arty/intellect audience. Directed by Michael Fuller, the four performers (including Adam Lutley on piano) sang and danced with enthusiasm. Catherine Campbell has a beautiful voice and Hew Parham and Sean Weatherly were relaxed and confidently charming in the very intimate theatre.
This production will obviously appeal most to people who enjoy Tom Lehrer's work, but in saying that, I had no previous exposure to his style and found the night entertaining and interesting. It's a surprisingly insightful in to the attitudes and times of another generation.


Bianca Weiler