‘Tom Foolery’ offers two witty weeks of fun

April 5, 2004

The Irvine Valley College Department of Theatre presents “Tom Foolery,” the witty and wacky Tom Lehrer satire which he set to music about his own observations of life, at the Forum Theatre, April 30 to May 2, and May 6 to 9.

“Foolery” is directed by IVC student Jehann Elsemri, who has choreographed and performed in shows for studios, high schools and colleges throughout Orange County.

The play offers a great range of songs that are neither boring nor conventional. Lehrer’s songs, written over 40 years ago, expose his acerbic, decadent and above all, satirical view of everything from love in “Poisoning Pigeons in the Park” to mental illness in “The Hunting Song.” It is through these cleverly cast vignettes which depict his view of the world in verse and song that Lehrer draws the audience into his caustic humor, which is as much a statement as it is comedy.

While Lehrer’s cynicism and often warped sense of humor may be jarring to some, the cast’s enthusiasm, style and élan make “Foolery” a vehicle through which the audience can laugh out loud about subjects that are taboo or difficult to face.

IVC’s production offers an abbreviated version of the play and includes 16 of the best original songs.

The production features a talented, all-student cast of 11 and includes several students who perform and direct or choreograph.

Tickets are $11 for general admission, $10 for students and seniors. Show times are Thursday—Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. The box office is open Wednesdays, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.; Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the box office or by calling (949) 451-5333.

Producer and Music Director: Ron Ellison

Director/Choreographer: Jehann Elsemri

Scenic Designer: Seam McMullen

Technical Director/Light & Sound Designer: Jim Rynning

Costume Designer: Carin Jacobs

Assistant Music Director and recorded music: Randy Woltz

Stage Manager: Lysette Perez

Irvine Valley College is located at 5500 Irvine Center Drive, on the corner of Jeffrey Road and Irvine Center Drive in Irvine. For more information about Irvine Valley College, please call (949) 451-5100. Producer Ron Ellison can be reached at (949) 451-5303.