A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum

A first time for me seeing this show, although it must have been done before in NODA, but yet another ‘different’ show for Runway TG, best known for their Pantomimes.  Following success with Camelot, The Drowsy Chaperone (première) and  Whistle down the Wind (Scottish Amateur Première) this group has decided to again approach a show seldom seen before.  It was the Broadway show that inspired the television show Up, Pompeii!  scattered with Frankie Howerd’s double-entendres.  Thus it merges Runway’s strengths in Drama and Panto, as that it essentially is in parts, as well as farce.  No Dame, no sweets, no communal song, but it’s there.  Sondheim music and a funny libretto which was certainly a hit at Eastwood.

Pseudolus, a slave wishing to be free (WIll Pollock) is servant to Hero (Ryan Towart), son of Senex and Domina (real life husband and wife Tom and Susan Russell).  Hero is in love with Philia, a virgin (Elle Mackenzie) which requires Head Slave Hysterium (Iain G. Condie) keeping watch as his master and mistress are away.  The story moves to Miles Gloriosus, a warrior (J. Campbell Kerr) who falls in love with Philia, who is to be sold as a slave from the house next door.  There is a third house owned by Erronius, an old man  (Ken Christie) which gives the chance for doors and stairways, in true French farce style.  Good songs, lots of laughs, saucy postcard-style, and all is well for Hero at the end — and for Pseudolus, who is freed.

A great romp, well performed by all, principals and courtesans, with lots of fun and glamour.  Here’s to your next adventure into the seldom performed.

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