"Tragedy tomorrow, comedy tonight!" The lyrics of the opening song in "A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum," playing at the Matthews Acting Studio at 185 Nassau St. from Nov. 15-18, invite the audience to plunge into a saucy musical filled with humor.
It's 200 BCE in Rome. Pseudolus (Jonathan Schwartz '10), is a lackadaisical slave in the household of Senex (Alex Fiorentino '08). When Senex and his wife, Domina (Alexis Rodda '10) leave for a day trip, their son, Hero (Matt Krob '07), confesses to Pseudolus that he has fallen in love with a virginal courtesan, Philia (Kate Stevick '09). However, Philia has already been sold to Miles Gloriosus (Jon Feyer '09). They make a deal: if Pseudolus can unite the two young lovers, Hero will grant Pseudolus his freedom. Bringing the couple together, however, quickly becomes much more difficult than Pseudolus expected.
The musical, written by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart with music by Stephen Sondheim, is a far cry from Sondheim's typical material. It has the feel of a splashier, slapstick musical comedy, colored by Sondheim's characteristically dry wit. Pseudolus narrates throughout the play, engaging the audience and inviting them to participate in the story. The set, designed by Liz Abernethy '07, is a curved, raised platform that emphasizes the presentational aspect of the musical, while simultaneously diminishing the distinctions between the two worlds of the stage and the audience.
The musical, also directed by Abernethy, is a lively and engaging production. The outlandish and flashy plotline, partnered with clever banter and astute songs, makes for a colorful, over-the-top experience.
No one could have narrated the play better than Schwartz. Schwartz is, to put it succinctly, an obvious pro. Not only is his voice beautiful and his technique astounding, but his acting is also commendable. Slapstick comedy can easily degenerate into material that is conducive to eye-rolling, and it takes a highly adept actor to prevent it from falling into that pit. Schwartz's performance acknowledges the zaniness of the play but is simultaneously humble. His tone is so conversational that he's immediately appealing and likeable.
Spencer Case '09 is another standout in the role of Hysterium, Senex's slave-in-chief. Case's voice is beautiful, and his comedic timing and the clownish personality he gives his character are impeccable. He succeeds at the tough job of making the aptly named and annoying Hysterium lovable. Other strong performances come from Matt Krob '08, and Jon Feyer '09.
Unfortunately, with these few exceptions, the acting is a weakness of the show. Many of the performers struggle to stay in character, not appearing fully committed. In addition, the choreography by Sydney Schiff '10, while generally compelling, looked hesitant at times in previews. Perhaps this will be improved by the show's opening.
In general, though, the singing in the musical is wonderful. A lot of vocal talent was clear in every leading actor. This is severely undermined by sound issues, however. The orchestra drastically overpowers the actors, forcing the audience to strain in order to hear them. It is a shame to think that due to the imbalance of sound, some of the show's wonderful material is lost.
It isn't often — especially at Princeton — that you can see a show dominated by a carefree, happy-go-lucky spirit. That spirit is embodied in "A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum." If you're looking to kick back and share in some good laughter, then this comedy is most certainly the one for you.
"A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum" runs Wednesday, Nov. 15, through Saturday, Nov. 18, at 8 p.m., with an additional matinee on Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Matthews Acting Studio in 185 Nassau St. Tickets are $8 for Princeton students, staff and senior citizens, and $10 for general admission.
Paws:
3/5Pros:
Strong singing, funny materialCons:
Some weak acting
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