‘A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum’ — in Reading

A really funny thing will be happening in Reading when Genesius Theatre presents Stephen Sondheim’s joyous and hysterical musical romp through Rome, ““A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum”Oct. 7 through Oct. 15.

Broadway’s greatest farce is light, fast-paced, witty, irreverent and one of the funniest musicals ever written. “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” takes comedy back to its roots, combining situations from time-tested, 2000-year-old comedies of Roman playwright, Plautus, with the infectious energy of classic vaudeville.

The show is a nonstop laugh-fest in which Pseudolus, a crafty slave, struggles to win the hand of a beautiful, but slow-witted, courtesan named Philia for his young master, Hero, in exchange for freedom. The plot twists and turns with cases of mistaken identity, slamming doors and a showgirl or two. This unforgettable, hysterical musical allows a terrific ensemble of comedic actors to shine – “something for everyone, a comedy tonight!” The plot displays many farcical elements, including puns, slap stick comedy, and satirical comments on social class. The title derives from the line that vaudeville comedians often used to begin a story: “A funny thing happened on the way to the theater”.

With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart (the award-winning writer of the film “Tootsie” and the “M*A*S*H” TV series), this hilarious, slapstick farce is regarded by many as a high point in the history of Broadway musical comedy. Be prepared to laugh early and often - as the signature show tune puts it, “Tragedy tomorrow, Comedy tonight!” The musical’s original 1962 Broadway run won several Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Book. Every actor who has opened in the role of Pseudolus on Broadway (Zero Mostel, Phil Silvers and Nathan Lane) won a Best Actor Tony for his performance.

“Genesius has assembled some of Greater Reading’s most talented comedic musical theatre veterans to be in “…Forum”, and to present this show you need actors who understand the style of zany comedy that’s required to make this piece really soar” director, Simmon Fecho said.

L J Fecho, Artistic Producer of Genesius, will play the role of Pseudolos, Christopher Sperat is Hysterium, Kevin Cooper is Senex, Cathy Miller is Domina, Nick Freer is Miles Gloriosus, Dara Himes is Philia, Joey Moray is Hero and Steve Daniels is Erronius. “…Forum” also features an ensemble cast of ten additional actors who form a comical “Greek Chorus”.

Simmon Fecho is directing, David McConnell - music directing, Jennifer Parker Scott - choreography Julia Elberfeld, - stage manager, Cathy Miller – costumes and L J Fecho – Producer. Set design by John Bigos and the lighting design by Spencer Moss Fecho.

“A Funny Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum” opens Friday, Oct. 7 and runs to Saturday, Oct. 15 (with the exception of Monday, Oct. 10 and Tuesday, Oct. 11) Curtain is at 7:30 p.m. each night. The Sunday, Oct. 9, matinee performance is at 3 p.m.

Ticket prices range from $28.50/$22.5 to$17.50. For Tickets please visit - www. genesiusdifference.org; or call 610-373-9500 card fees apply. Tickets may also be available at the door.

The play is rated PG for minor adult themes – (ages 9 on up) Genesius Theatre is located at 153 North 10th St., Reading, PA 19601. The theater is handicapped accessible and there is free parking (limited spaces available) next to the theater. For more information, call the theater at 610-371-8151.