A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

“Tragedy tomorrow, comedy tonight.” That is the intention of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. This musical farce takes place in ancient Rome and revolves around Pseudolus, a slave obsessed with buying his freedom. His master, Hero, is in love with Philia. She is a courtesan promised to Milos Gloriosus, a fearless Roman warrior.  When Hero tells Pseudolus, “Get me that girl and you are free,” all bets are off and the madness begins. Colorful characters, hilarious situations, and false impressions move the story through twists and turns leading to “a happy ending, of course.”

Written in 1962 by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart (M*A*S*H) with music by Stephen Sondheim, it starred Zero Mostel as Pseudolus, Jack Gilford as Hysterium and John Carradine as Marcus Lycus. 

David Hall returns for a stint at the director’s helm, following up his powerful AP production of Cat On A Hot Tin Roof in 2008. He has performed in, and directed, many community and professional productions throughout WNY. Recent productions he’s directed include The Long Weekend (TANYS Excellence in Directing Award), The Odd Couple, Ten Little Indians, Dark of the Moon (TANYS Excellence in Directing Award), Grease, and Over the Tavern. “Forum” marks his AP musical-directing debut.

This marks Aaron Lundy’s initial participation with AP. A talented musician and vocalist, he will serve as vocal director.

Betty Pitcher served AP as music director for Oliver!, A Child’s Christmas In Wales, and was in the orchestra for George M. She is organist at First Presbyterian Church in East Aurora and accompanist for the Villa Maria Chorale.

Renée Speers returns as choreographer, her fourth AP musical production; she also choreographed Park School’s Working. Appearances on-stage include A Midsummer Night’s Dream (AP), On The Town, Hello, Dolly!, The Fantasticks (Riviera Theatre). Honors include a TANYS Award and a Joseph Burrono Award for excellence in acting.