Tom Foolery: The Words & Music of Tom Lehrer

by Tom Lehrer, Cameron Mackintosh (Adapter), Robin Ray (Adapter)

Musical comedy revue
3 males and 1 female
Interior The wild humor of Tom Lehrer is exhibited in this hilarious, laugh-filled, and yet, poignant adaptation by Cameron Mackintosh and Robin Ray. Twenty-eight of Lehrer's songs are featured in this casual revue, in which the actors go by their own names and remain on stage at a bar while the others perform. This comedy is sure to leave adult audiences with sore sides and laughter-induced tears, but also with thoughts to ponder after watching Lehrer's satire at work. "Leaves us wishing that Tom Lehrer will yet return to his piano again."
- The New York Times

78 pages, Staple Bound

First published January 1, 1986

About the author

Thomas Andrew Lehrer was an American musician, singer-songwriter, satirist, and mathematician, who later taught mathematics and musical theater.

He was best known for the songs that he recorded in the 1950s and 1960 (while also lecturing on mathematics at Harvard among other colleges). Many were satirical, such as "Fight Fiercely, Harvard," a suggested fight song for his alma mater. Some dealt with social issues of the day, such as "Pollution" and "I Wanna Go Back to Dixie" (a highly unflattering view of the South during Integration), while others were offbeat black humor ("Poisoning Pigeons in the Park").

Reviews

[Dan Blackley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is the words and music of Tom Lehrer who performed during the late 50's and Early 60's. His wit and funny songs are parodies of all the types of songs people know. The folk song, the patriotic song, the love song, the tango, etc.

I performed in this musical in college and still have fond memories about it.