A Resounding Tinkle

All Mr and Mrs Paradock, respectable citizens, wanted the zoo to do was deliver them a nice little elephant. Something small, like the one they had last year. And instead, they’ve received a whopping great one. Whatever are they to do? As Middie Paradock so rightly worries, “people think you’re trying to go one better than everybody else.” Their mood isn’t improved by door-knocking comedians, cold-calling neighbours, and the stunning arrival of their Uncle Ted, and soon they’re bickering over all and sundry. Is six o’clock the right time of day to start a government? Do eagles need eye-glasses? And what kind of hat is best in the rain? N. F. Simpson’s hilarious absurdist comedy was first performed in 1957, but its satirical bite is just as sharp fifty years on. Its cracking dialogue and witty one-liners will resonate with anyone who has rolled their eyes at someone far too concerned with what the Joneses next door think of their new patio. Australia has already learned to laugh at the trivialities of suburban life with Kath & Kim. Now it’s time to do it in the theatre – with an absurdist touch to make you pay attention! Audiences will be delighted by director Dominique Evans’ faithful revival of a post-war English theatre classic. A night of wicked humour awaits them, proving that, in the end, sometimes it’s better just to order the giraffe instead. ***Please note there is a later start time on Saturday night - 8.30pm, rather than 7.30pm***