Considering the recent Royal Commission’s damning findings into aged care, a musical comedy set in an old folks’ home seems like a stretch – perhaps even insensitive.

Pulling it off feels even more unlikely given this new Australian show’s book and lyrics are by a musical debutant. However, after a slow start, MTC’s Bloom lives up to its name, revealing a big heart and warm sense of humour as it explores an aspect of society – and of many people’s lives – that is all too often ignored.

Melbourne Theatre Company’s Bloom. Photo © Pia Johnson

It’s written by Tom Gleisner, whose CV is filled with screen comedy gold, including films such as The Castle and TV shows including Utopia. For this chamber musical with music by Katie Weston, Gleisner sets up his story with the arrival of two new residents at the Pine Grove aged-care facility: fiercely independent Rose, who feels she has been pushed into “life without parole” here; and Finn, a university student who has signed up to perform light duties in return for room and board.

This scheme is the latest cost-saving idea of the facility’s manager, Mrs...