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Playhouse's "Funny Thing" will leave you laughing
By Eric McCrea
Tragedy? Who needs it? Let The Youngstown Playhouse make you laugh with its latest musical “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.”
In ancient Rome, the butler probably never did it, but in “Forum,” you can be sure that Pseudolus, played by John Cox, probably had something to do with it. When his master and mistress are away, he and fellow slave Hysterium (Paul Dahman) must make sure that young Hero (Daniel Navabi) stays safe, and most importantly, away from women. But as soon as his parents depart, Hero becomes enthralled by newly arrived courtesan, Philia, played by Miranda Canacci.
If Pseudolus can manage to obtain the fair beauty for his young ward, then he shall be granted his freedom. Things aren’t that simple though, because Philia has already been contracted to a successful Captain.
Cox did not disappoint the opening-night audience. He capably performed the lead role, keeping the show moving, and never taking himself too seriously in the well-known comedy golden ring. He was especially entertaining with songs such as “Free” and “Everybody Ought to Have a Maid.”
Canacci and Navabi added a Romeo and Juliet vibe to the evening. Their young, innocent personas were a perfect match.
Christopher Fidram was a standout as Lycus, the manager of courtesans. He never misses an opportunity to give 110 percent, creating more character than a script can hold. Every detail was precise and well worth the effort.
Dahman was wonderful as the high-strung, loyal Hysterium. He took neuroticism to a new level as he struggled to keep the household from crumbling. This was most apparent with the reprise of “Lovely.”
David El’Hatton was a crowd favorite as Erronius, the elderly neighbor in search of his long-lost children. His brief appearances come at the perfect times, and he made each one as hilarious as possible.
David Jendre was a comedic force to be reckoned with as Senex, the leader of our protagonist’s manor. He philandered about, complicating everything.
Also worthy of note were Zachary Bernat, Reece Bordonaro and Johnny George, who filled multitudes of roles as the versatile Proteans, and Jenna Cintavey as the fiercest courtesan, Gymnasia.
The cast admirably performed the show without microphones. Though there was no trouble hearing their lines, some of the weaker singers struggled to be heard during musical numbers. However, it was refreshing to hear actors singing to live music under the direction of Nancy Wolfgang, without the aid of amplification. The sound had a purity that is often missed in local theaters, and the large ensemble numbers such as “Comedy Tonight” and “Funeral Sequence” sounded balanced and clean.
As a whole, the show never really found its full-steam pace. Despite some great talent, the cast never completely unified, giving the night a feeling of being a late rehearsal.
“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum runs Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and next Sunday at 2:30 p.m. For reservations, call 330-788-8739.