British comedy likes to push the boundaries.
Think ‘Derek’, ‘Peep Show’ or ‘Mrs. Brown’s Boys’ in more recent times. But back in the 1970s, it was a group working in a department store that had viewers tuned in. Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft's ‘Are You Being Served?’ served up laughs from the staff at Grace Brothers of varying working classes – which the show relentlessly referenced and mocked. The show raised eyebrows for its double entendres and smutty humour, particularly that of John Inman’s Mr. Humphries.
Equally memorable was Molly Sugden’s Mrs. Slocombe, a 50-odd-year-old woman whose hair changed colour often. She also gained infamy with her talk about her pet. Soon to embark on a Spanish holiday, Mrs. Slocombe took time away from her pussy to answer some questions:
Who’s going to look after your pussy while you're away?
I have asked Mr Godfrey who lives next door to pop his head in on my pussy every day. She simply cannot tolerate strange men, but has had some experience with Mr Godfrey in the past. I may try and smuggle my pussy in the overhead luggage.
Do you think you will be tempted by any of the Spanish boys?
Mrs Axelby and I spend many hours in the company of young men. On our most recent visit to the roller rink, we were accosted by two men who simply wouldn’t take no for an answer! I am hoping the Spanish boys will be just as accommodating.
What’s the deal with Captain Peacock? Is he really as uptight as he appears?
Officially, Captain Peacock is my superior and he has impeccable taste. Unofficially, that impeccable taste tends to make his eyes wander more often then not to the ladies department. Although he does have very smooth hands for a Captain.
'Are You Being Served' performs Brisbane Arts Theatre 30 April – 4 June.
