A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum

What an excellent evening’s entertainment was served up by the Company’s production of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum.  It was epitomised by the show’s hit number “Comedy Tonight” and to paraphrase, it had “something for everyone.”

Under the fine Direction of Michelle Coulson, the Baton of Freda Carney, and the Choreography of Laura Kelly it rattled along at a terrific pace. This was not to the detriment of the nuances of the intricate plot however, which saw the wily slave Pseudolus use every trick in his vast  armoury to secure his freedom by helping his young master, Hero, win the love of the girl next door Philia.

The nine leading principals in the show were well cast and it would be churlish to single out one performer as they all brought to life their unique character traits and made the roles their own. They were Alan Tomkins (Pseudolus), David Wilkinson (Senex), Margaret Gray (Domina), Daniel Gibson (Hero), Frances Wood (Philia), Grayson Wood (Miles Gloriosus), Lawrence Clark (Hysterium), Terry Connelly (Marcus Lycus), and Michael Hall (Erronius).

When staging a show of this nature the comedy/farce elements require perfect timing and a cast in tune with each other. This was delivered to perfection, as was evident in the final “chase” when who is who is revealed to all.

The Orchestra also made a fine contribution but at times their enthusiasm overpowered the dialogue over music scenes. Although simple, the set was very effective, and the costumes added a touch of realism to the period of the show’s setting.  From an audience point of view it was a very happy show, and the verve and enthusiasm of the Chorus themselves played a vital role in making it a success.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.