A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum is based on situations inspired by the farces of the ancient Roman playwright Plautus (251–183 BC). Along with the witty songs by Stephen Sondheim, writers Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart (of “MASH” fame), have added the infectious energy of classic vaudeville and come up with one of the funniest musicals ever written. A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum opened on Broadway May 8, 1962 and ran 964 performances, winning several Tony Awards including best musical.

            “This musical has unforgettably zany characters,” says director Cheri Barbre, who has herself been dubbed ‘Comedy Queen of the Columbia Basin’.  “The book is hysterical and so are the songs,” she continues.  “This allows a brilliant ensemble of comedic actors to shine, and do we ever have an ensemble of Masquers’ best!”

            This bawdy story revolves around a conniving and inventive slave named Pseudolus, played by Randy Brooks.   He attempts to buy, win or steal his freedom by guiding (or misguiding) his young master Hero through the maze of young love.  Darryl Pheasant plays Hero, who has been pierced by Eros’ arrow. The object of his affections is Philia, the dimwitted ingénue played by Nani Bosnar.  Things really get underway when Hero’s parents leave on a trip, but get even juicier when they return.  The parents are Bob Jasman as Senex, the dirty old man, and Peggy Dubey as Domina (the name says it all). 

            Eric Van Woert is Hysterium, the calm, good servant. Eric Suitter plays Lycus, the retailer – of what you’ll find out.   Chris Leblanc of Sadie Flynn fame is Miles Gloriosus, the narcissistic Roman soldier who also has eyes for the beauteous Philia. Rounding out the cast and adding to the singing and dancing are Clarke Foerstner, Joanne Bracht, Mady Ream, Ashley Sorenson, Holli Bosnar, Kellie Bracht, Michelle Taylor, Brendan Brooks, Alex Buchmann, and Tyrell Pickett.

            Marta Von Grey is the producer and Merie Walker is the musical director.

            The plot displays many classic elements of farce, including puns, deceptions, cases of mistaken identity, characters disguising themselves as one another, men in drag,

sooth sayers and fast-paced chases.  Overall A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum promises audiences an evening of hilarious escapism.  It is rated PG-13.

            Dates for the fall musical are Friday and Saturday 8PM on October 24-25, 31, November 1, 7-8, 14-15, and 21-22. There will be three Sunday matinees at 3PM on Nov. 2, 9 and 16. The price is $15 per ticket.  Reservations are required, and Masquers musicals sell out quickly, so please call 246-2611.  If you get a recording leave your name and number, and Bobbi Christie or another box office person will get back to you.

          
Rated PG-13

  Friday and Saturday Performances at 8 PM:
October 24, 25, 31
November 1, 7, 8, 14. 15. 21. 22

Sunday Matinees at 3 PM:
November 2, 9, 16

All Seats      $15

322 Main Ave E
Soap Lake, WA
(509) 246-2611