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‘Funny Thing’ happens on the way to YSU
By Eric McCrea
YOUNGSTOWN
Tragedy? Not this week. Instead, YSU delivers an imperial-sized comedy, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.”
Pseudolus, played by Ben Mowrer, is a slave in the house of Senex (Simon Davis) who departs with his wife to visit his in-laws. While the master of the house is away, the duty of protecting the household heir and only son falls upon Hysterium (Mac Callahan) the high-strung slave-in-command. Unfortunately for the spastic servant, his protectee, Hero, played by Stefon Funderburke, falls in love with a courtesan, and makes a bargain with Pseudolus that could result in his freedom.
Hilarious misunderstandings and mistaken identity ensues. Imagine “Three’s Company” in togas.
Director Dr. Nancy Andersen Wolfgang assembled a fine cast. Combined, they were a serious force of comedic farce.
Mowrer was phenomenal as the protagonist. He had the style and energy of a real leading man. His vocal skills were above reproach. He had no difficulty capturing the attention of the audience, and holding it for two hours. He solidly led the cast in “Comedy Tonight” and “Everybody Ought to Have a Maid.”
Newcomer Gabby Martin was quite lovely as the love interest Philia. She was sweet and charming, which are the key components to the role. Her solo “Lovely” was nearly perfect, but her second song “That’ll Show Him” seemed to challenge her. This song, however, often feels out of sorts in this show, like an aria thrown into vaudeville.
Callahan was great in his role, showing great voice skills, on par with some of the best cartoon voice actors. He kept the plot interesting and fast-paced. His song “I’m Calm” garnered some of the biggest laughs of the evening.
Davis, in the role of Senex, was refreshing and enjoyable. His portrayal was sassy and salacious. A different approach to the role paid off well for him. He gave the entire production an orgiastic, Roman feel.
Three Proteans also factored into the story in countless ways, playing numerous roles each, and having a blast with each of them. Tristan Kile, DJ Davis and Daniel Navabi showed a lot of talent and will surely be seen more in the future.
Musical director Ian LeRoy was really able to capture the Stephen Sondheim feel in the music. Slightly syncopated and conversational, the style is unmistakable, throwing conventional showtune structure out with the bathwater. Mowrer was especially good at this with his song “Love, I Hear.”
Choreography by Lindsay Renea was fun and entertaining, with some modern touches. It didn’t feel very historic, but it enhanced the performances of the Proteans.
Performances of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Form” can be seen in YSU’s Ford Theater in Bliss Hall today and Dec. 4 at 2 p.m., and at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. There are no performances Thanksgiving weekend. For reservations, call 330-941-3105.