Stiff’s comedy appeals

Press, 23 June 1981, Page 7

Stiff’s comedy appeals

“Stiff Luck for the Undertaker,” a,musical comedy by the University of Canterbury Music Society. Written by Philip Norman and John Farnsworth. Produced by Claire Marsh with musical direction by Peter Rainey. Ngaio Marsh Theatre. Runs June 20 and June 25 to -7, starts 8 p.m. Reviewed by Karren Beanland.Nothing is sacred in Musoc's production, Stitt Luck for the Undertaker, least of all death. This racy production pokes bawdy and merciless fun at every cliche associated with the popular house of horrors. Coffins, vampires,

dismembered hands, and blood are used to set an unlikely scene for a hilarious satire on advertising, famous music, and religion. The plot pivots round four undertakers in a small town who lament a dearth of deaths. “Business is bad without war, plague or pestilence,” until the leading undertaker (Boris Hammer, played by David Round) decides to generate some business of his own at the vampire's castle. The situation is complicated by the arrival of a gang of hoods, who are using the castle as a secret hideaway. , . ■ David Round, who makes

his entrance by rising out of a coffin, makes the most of the script to establish a fine comic character. One of the most memorable songs in the show is a hilarious display of vocal virtuosity by the gang leader (Geoff Norman) and Gloria (Gillian Loveridge). .As the Reverend, Alan Doak plays a fine parody, Exorcist-style, bringing about the spectacular demise of the evil count (Jim Ross). Slap-stick acting, a big, strong-singing chorus and music which gaily encompasses a hundred styles combine to make this an immensely enjoyable entertainment.