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Regional Reviews: Philadelphia A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum Also see Cameron's reviews of Elizabeth Cree and Red Velvet and Rebecca's review of Strange Tenants
Set in ancient Rome, Forum is the story of Pseudolus, a mischievous slave whose young master Hero falls in love with the beautiful but dimwitted Philia, a courtesan living next door. Pseudolus will win his freedom if the pair get married, but Hero's parents would never approve and Philia has already been sold to Captain Miles Gloriosus. Any potentially thorny moral issues raised by slavery or sexual exploitation are ignored in favor of circuitous plans, ridiculous disguises, and an impressive roster of contagiously upbeat songs. Effortlessly charming and funny, Frank Ferrante brings a vaudeville flair to the role of Pseudolus and raises the level of the entire production. That Ferrante is also the director only adds to his gravitas on stage and his role as master of ceremonies. Much loved Mary Martello is brilliant as Hero's aptly named mother Domina. Ron Wisniski gets big laughs as Senex, young Hero's father. His interactions with Martello are hilarious. Alanna J. Smith (Philia) and Scott Greer (Hysterium) also give stand-out performances. Mary Folino has designed a dizzying array of costumes whose movement, color, and detail contribute to the production's fun energy. The excellent lighting is similarly playful, thanks to lighting designer Paul Black. A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum is one of the all time great musical comedies and Ferrante's top-notch production keeps the audience laughing out loud and tapping their toes. Turn off your cell phone, forget about politics, push any concerns about misogyny to the back of your mind and just enjoy the ride—I guarantee you will be glad you did. A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum runs through October 22, 2017, at the Walnut Street Theatre 825 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA. For tickets and information, call 215-574-3550 or 800-982-2787. Tickets are also available online 24/7 by visiting www.WalnutStreetTheatre.org or Ticketmaster. Production and Design Staff The Cast: Ensemble: Extras: * Denotes membership in Actors' Equity Association, the professional union of Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. |
