It’s difficult to categorise Tom Gleisner, because he’s done it all. He’s a presenter, producer, director, writer, and actor, and even then that only scratches the surface of his talents. W first became aware of Tom thanks to The D Generation back in 1986, and as a part of Working Dog Productions he’s created comedy classics like Frontline and Utopia, panel shows like Have You Been Paying Attention and The Panel, and feature films, including the critically acclaimed The Castle and The Dish. But it’s musical theatre which Tom has most recently turned his hand to, writing the book and lyrics for Bloom!, a new Australian musical set in an aged care facility.

Tom reflects on his inspiration for the show, and his desire to treat older characters with dignity and complexity. He also shares insights into the collaborative process of developing the musical. He also discusses his multifaceted career, from his early days with The D-Generation and Frontline, the success of The Panel, to his more recent work in television satire with The Hollowmen and Utopia. He talks about making The Castle on a shoestring and the greater complexities and budget requirements for The Dish. Beyond entertainment, Gleisner speaks passionately about his involvement in charity work, including co-founding an autism support organisation and chairing a cancer charity. Throughout the conversation, he offers reflections on the evolution of television, the rise of streaming, and how comedy has adapted across different formats and platforms.

Bloom! plays at the Rosalyn Packer Theatre until May 11.

Tom's music selections

Prine, J. – Hello in there
Bette Middler
Atlantic – 82785-2

Lovelady, W. – The Sounds of Rain (part 3)
Slave Grigoryan, guitar
unreleased live performance

Chopin, F. – Étude op 10 no 3 in E “La Tristesse”
Jan Lisiecki, piano
Deutsche Grammophon – 479 1039

Pasek, B. / Paul, J. – Only Us, from Dear Evan Hansen
Laura Dreyfuss; Ben Platt; Original Broadway Cast Recording
Atlantic – 558831-2

Simon, P. / Shabalala, J. – Homeless
Paul Simon, Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Sony Music – 88691954542

Brahms, J. – Piano Quartet no 3 in C minor op 60 – III. Andante
Renaud Capuçon, violin; Gérard Causse, viola; Gautier Capuçon, cello; Nicholas Angelich, piano
Virgin Classics – 50999 519310 2 5