A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
at South Lakes High School

Reviewed on May 7, 2016

Corinne Kleinman
Wakefield School
Submitted for publication to Washington Post - Fairfax

"Oh, Thespis, we place ourselves in your hands," begins the drama of South Lake High School's "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum." Truly a show for everyone, this ridiculous musical has a plot that "can hold a thousand promises" and a performance "that stands behind every one."

With music by the prolific Stephen Sondheim and book by Bert Shevelove and Larry Gelbart (creator and producer of the long-running comedic television series, M*A*S*H), "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" debuted on Broadway in 1962, garnering four Tony Awards, and originally featuring Zero Mostel as the lead, Pseudolus. When the original opening number proved unpopular, Sondheim rewrote it into the well-known tune, "Comedy Tonight." This "bawdy," "gaudy" tale of the laziest Roman slave features the hilarious efforts of Pseudolus as he tries to beg, borrow, and steal his freedom.

Playing the quick-witted, cunning Pseudolus, Arthur Payne established a solid character with distinct choices; but as the play progressed, Payne owned the stage, his physicality seamlessly matching the role. Jalen Robinson as Hysterium, the hysterical head slave and often Pseudolus' unwilling accomplice, showed off his strong vocals and well-placed comedy in "Lovely Reprise," his duet with Pseudolus.

Some of the supporting characters deserve special commendation. With distinct character choices and a piercing voice, the uproarious Mely Megahed truly embodied the role of the controlling, overdramatic Domina while demonstrating her superior, operatic voice in "That Dirty Old Man." Another standout character was Jacob Kemp's Erronius, the old man searching for his lost children, who enhanced his limited stage time by milking his role with physical comedy – such as running into the wall or the line of Roman sentries.

No review would be complete without applauding the two stand-out groups of the chorus that injected enthusiasm and charm into each scene: the dynamic and distinctive Proteans and the sensual and fiery courtesans. The Proteans (the Roman citizens who played a multitude of roles from slaves to sentries) were clearly having a blast, and their eager antics combined to work both as a group and individually. The courtesans' deft dancing and tongue-in-cheek savoring of their roles spiced up the stage – especially the outstanding dance and gymnastic abilities of Amirah Kirwan (Tintinabula) and Isabel Edgerton (Vibrata).

Pulling the entire performance together, the professional-quality set and the perfectly timed orchestra supplied an extra dimension to all aspects of the night's show. Each simple house was carefully constructed and painstakingly painted; the orchestra picked up every cue effortlessly and augmented the cast's electric, upbeat energy.

Although a minor imbalance between the orchestra and microphones resulted in periodic dropped lines, South Lakes High School's theatrical community proved unstoppable. Entertaining from start to finish, "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" delivers a bawdy, gaudy comedy for everyone!

Hailey Scherer
Flint Hill School
Submitted for publication to Washington Post - Fairfax

Complete with stately citizens, captivating courtesans, and, of course, the laziest (and cleverest) slave in Rome, the comedy of errors, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, danced its way across the stage of South Lakes High School with hilarity and verve. The actors' consistently playful exuberance, the impressive student-created set, and the particularly exceptional performance by the student orchestra combined in a production that earned its standing ovation.

The musical, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart, first appeared on Broadway in the spring of 1962, and has since won several Tony Awards. It follows the swaggering slave Pseudolus in his attempts to win his freedom by helping his young master earn the affections of a girl. The musical combines elements from a classic comedy of errors, such as cases of mistaken identity, as well as elements of bawdy vaudeville and slapstick comedy.

The student orchestra delivered a nearly professional-grade performance of the musical's score, playing as a cohesive unit in terms of pitch and timing. Their work provided a beautiful backdrop of sound to the entire musical, and was unquestionably one of the most successful aspects of the production.

From the first moment that he stumbled onto stage from behind the curtain, Arthur Payne (Prologus/Pseudolus) charmed the audience with his liveliness and gusto. Tanner Asmussen (Senex), Jared Sabet (Marcus Lycus), and Grant Jennings (Miles Gloriosus) also showed jaunty exuberance, and their combined performance in "Everybody Ought to Have a Maid" and its two encores were audience favorites.

Jalen Robinson (Hysterium) gave an especially memorable performance as the high-strung head slave, voice pitched high with worry, exuding agitation, and earning laugh after laugh from the audience. Mely Megahed (Domina) also captivated the audience with her total commitment to a wide range of emotions in short windows of time and with her exceptional vocal performance. She delivered the song "That Dirty Old Man" with operatic intensity and vibrato to match, thoroughly impressing audience members.

Mandip Bhadra (Hero) delighted the audience with his solid vocal performance and seemingly genuine portrayal of the young man in love, with the addition of the pinch of slapstick that this production demands, a balance Bhadra achieved well.

The members of the Proteans and Courtesans ensembles excellently accomplished the principle challenge of playing an ensemble role: working as a part of a cohesive unit while also developing individual characters. The Proteans in particular ensured that the high levels of exuberance that marked the musical in the audience's memory were maintained throughout the production with hilariously exaggerated facial expressions and range of embodied emotion, jumping with uncontrollable excitement one second and dissolving into a simpering mess the next.

Isabel Edgerton (Vibrata) and Amirah Kirwan (Tintinabula) gave especially impressive dance performances. Kirwan's every expert movement matched the timing of the orchestra impeccably, a particularly engaging feat, and Edgerton's impressive leaps and almost contortionist-like movements displayed her strength, flexibility, and remarkable skill as a dancer.

The set was comprised of three two-story pieces painted with fine detail to look like stonework, beautifully done and true to time period. A lit backdrop behind it all changed color according to scene, which contributed richly to developing the mood of the given moment.

Exaggerated, playful, dramatic, and hilarious, the spring production at South Lakes High School proved a success. What the cast might have lacked in vocal ability, they more than made up for in abounding enthusiasm that engaged and thrilled the audience, delivering a night of boisterous merriment that culminated in a well-deserved standing ovation.

Lily Brock
Langley High School
Submitted for publication to FCPS Community News

Every day calls for a little debauchery. Preferably involving a Cretan virgin. Ideally with a frazzled protean. South Lakes High School provided such an ordeal in their spirited production of "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum."

Premiering in 1962 with book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart and music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, "A Funny Thing on the Way to the Forum" fits nicely into the ranks of beloved classical musicals. Following the irreverent slave, Pseudolus, in his quest to gain his freedom, the musical is more than your run-of-the-mill comedy of errors as courtesans, captains, slaves, and unics mistake identities and sprint to and fro.

In the central role as Pseudolus, Arthur Payne was a lovable goof, tossing chaos into every household he scurried into. Pseudolus's neurotic counterpart, Hysterium as portrayed by Jalen Robinson was as hilarious as he was anxious. In numbers such as "Lovely Reprise," Robinson sported a platinum blonde wig and delivered well-supported vocals as the unwitting subject in one of Psedolus's schemes. Both Payne and Robinson lent undeniable energy to the role as did Mandip Bhadra as Hero, Pseudolus's young master. Bhadra coupled smooth vocals with an excitable naivety as he perpetually stared, enamored, at the lovely Philia. His love interest as portrayed by Lily Dunlap matched Bhadra in silly sweetness and charm. Senex, played by Tanner Asmussen, was another comic favorite, peacocking about for the physical affection of "a maid."

Mely Megahed was phenomenal as Domina. Sharp and vocally impressive, Megahed's performance was a delight to watch. In her solo number, "That Dirty Old Man," Megahed ventured into the audience and condemned her husband's wandering eye. Jacob Kemp as Erronius brought the laughs each time he waddled blindly across the stage and Grant Jennings exhibited a commanding voice as Miles Gloriosus.

The entirety of the ensemble poured effervescence and character into the production. The courtesans showcased remarkable dancing abilities in tight belly dancing costumes. The proteans provided high energy goofiness to each of their roles, commendably committed to their characters.

The sets were a triumph. Three massive houses divided the stage as a working fountain babbled throughout. The house of Marcus Lycus was adorned with a shade of pink perfect for the pleasure palace, a rosy hue seemingly reserved for Florida motels and Las Vegas lounges. The orchestra was equally strong, filling the auditorium with impressive accompaniment.

All-in-all, South Lakes High School begifted its audience with a production rich in heart, humor, and delectable bedlam.

Apollo Yong
Washington Lee High School
Submitted for publication to Patch.com - Reston

There certainly was "Comedy Tonight" at South Lakes High School's spectacular production of A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM. The thoroughly energetic and dedicated cast, crew, and pit at South Lakes put on a toga-tapping per-forum-ance!

FORUM opens on the streets of Ancient Rome with the introduction of Pseudolus, the lazy house-slave of Senex. In order to earn his freedom, Pseudolus enters an agreement with Senex's son, Hero, to obtain the virgin courtesan, Philia, from the house next-door. Hilarities ensue as cases of mistaken identity throw the characters into a farcical comedy.

With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart, the plot and style of FORUM was based on the conventions of ancient Roman comedies, especially those by the playwright Plautus. The musical made its Broadway debut on May 8, 1962 at the Alvin Theatre. The original Broadway run won six Tony awards and closed on August 29, 1964, following 964 performances. There have been numerous revivals and international performances of bawdy show since its conception, and a musical film adaptation by the same name was made in 1966.

Unlike most high school productions, South Lakes prominently featured the pit orchestra, which was visible the whole time. The musicians of the South Lakes High School Forum Pit made a great first impression with their professionalism, and even showed a bit of humor, putting on golden wreathes to keep with the Roman setting. They showed great instrumental ability, especially since FORUM contains a great range of music and dance styles: everything from raunchy jazz to graceful ballet to wild samba.

The lead actor, Arthur Payne, led the show with humorously demure movements and sardonic tone of voice, fitting for the lazy character of Pseudolus. With much charm and goofiness, Payne set the standard for the rest of the players.

A host of supporting characters filled the theatre with extremely lively movements and side-splitting gag deliveries. Jalen Robinson, playing the anxious and androgynous Hysterium, especially stood out among the all-around talented cast with his uproariously animated panic attacks in "I'm Calm" and his crowd-pleasing sassiness in "Lovely Reprise."

Two other standout performers were Tanner Asmussen (Senex) and Mely Megahed (Domina). Both players exhibited finesse in voice. Asmussen's lines were heard clearly, thanks to his excellent diction and volume. Megahed, too, showed great vocal talent, flooring the audience with her beautiful operatic voice and magnificent stage presence. Like Robinson, Asmussen and Megahed both made the audience laugh uncontrollably, especially in moments where they directly interacted with the pit or audience, respectively.

An undoubtedly talented ensemble completed this "Pretty Little Picture." The Proteans, with their comically unsynchronized buffoonery, helped to uphold high energy throughout the show. Contrastingly, the group of courtesans demonstrated learned poise and grace. Standout dancers included Amirah Kirwan for her hip-gyrating, bell-jingling dance as the tantalizing Tintinabula, and Isabel Edgerton for her stunning showcase of strength and flexibility as the alluring Vibrata.

Tech also deserves praise for its evident dedication to the show. The set was truly beautiful, deserving of the round of applause at the beginning of the show. Lighting, too, should be given kudos for changing the color of the cyclorama during musical numbers to match the color of the soloists. Marketing and publicity merits a commendation as well for its extensive research and online presence.

South Lakes' FORUM was a sight to behold. It definitely will be a performance "Impossible" to forget!

Mallory Williamson
Dominion High School
Submitted for publication to Connection

Togas, forums, soldiers, eunuchs, slaves, funerals, whorehouses, and two children kidnapped in infancy by pirates galore! South Lakes High School's production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum was every ounce the comedy its first tune promised; hilarious at every turn, it left audiences with at once sore bellies and a greater grasp of Ancient Roman life.

Steven Sondheim penned A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum in 1962 as an homage both to the farsical works of Roman playwright Plautus and the book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart of the same name. It tells the story of Pseudolus, a Roman slave who desires nothing more than to live as a free man. When his owner's son, Hero, expresses his desire for Philia, a courtesan in the house next door, Pseudolus and Hero strike a deal; if Pseudolus can win the girl for Hero, he's free to live as his own man. If not, a life of slavery.

From start to finish, South Lakes' production was nearly flawless. Every actor executed his or her role's comic moments perfectly, and the impressive multi-layered set brought authenticity to the production. Notable as well were the cast's interactive moments with the audience, and the cracks in the ‘fourth wall' provided viewers a unique experience worthy of the Coliseum.

Arthur Payne lent a commendable slyness and cunning to principal character Pseudolus. His character also maintained hilarious chemistry with head slave Hysterium (Jalen Robinson), who himself kept perfect composure during even his character's most humorous moments.

South Lakes' supporting cast is also highly deserving of recognition. Jacob Kemp was gut-splittingly hilarious as Erronius, Pseudolus' neighbor and an elder man searching for his long lost children. Mely Megahed, in the role of Domina, stole the show during "That Dirty Old Man" with her powerful voice and was impressive throughout the show as Senex's thoroughly undesirable wife.

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum's set was an undeniable contributor to the show's endless charm. Three functional homes painted in pastel pink, grey, and yellow laid the backdrop to the cast's adventures and provided ample support for challenging elements of the script. Though at times certain characters were difficult to hear, the technical and stage crew were largely effective in moving the production along smoothly.

South Lakes High School's production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum was a smashing success, with humorous bits probably not appropriate for the whole family but a charm that truly spans centuries.

Jean Bayer
The New School of Northern Virginia
Submitted for publication to Fairfax County Times

A lazy servant, two young lovebirds, an unfaithful husband, courtesans, roman soldiers, and an old man in search for his two lost children; what else could you ask for in a great Roman tale? South Lakes did not fail to impress with their performance of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.

The Broadway musical originated from the book A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart. The book was then turned into a musical by Stephen Sondheim and opened on Broadway in 1962 and closed in 1964. The show won several Tony Awards such as Best Musical, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, Best Book, and Best Director. The show was also made into a movie in 1966, two years after it ended on Broadway.

One particular stand out was Mely Megahed as Domina. She brought an incredible energy to the stage with her beautiful voice and confidence that filled the entire theater. She never strayed from her character and never let herself stray from the light. Mely hit every note and they were all fully supported, she showed real star quality.

Another actor who stood out greatly was Jalen Robinson as Hysterium. His character was absolutely hysterical (literally) and he had a great amount of energy throughout the show. Robinson particularly showed off his skills in his song with Pseudolus, Lovely (Reprise). Jalen never let the energy fade from the stage and was clearly confident with his character. His voice was beautiful and well heard throughout the whole theatre. Another actor who stood out was Arthur Payne who, portraying Pseudolus, showed much enthusiasm through his character. He perfectly combined the lazy and enthusiastic nature of Pseudolus and brought it to the stage. Tanner Asmussen also brought a lot of light to the stage. He was clever and hilarious and sneaky just and Sennex ought to be. Asmussen was confident and had a clear and supported singing and speaking voice.

The courtesans especially stood out in their scenes and when they were not even main characters in a specific scene. They were all incredible dancers and every single one of their solo moments took the crowds breath away. Isabel Edgerton stood out in particular as Vibrata, her body flowed across the stage beautifully and she carried so much confidence in herself. Another group that stood out was the Proteans, they always had a significant amount of energy and enthusiasm. It was really nice to see that they all had developed their own character within the ensemble.

The lighting also added a significant effect to the show, and the lights changed color for each character which was a very unique and mesmerizing effect. The orchestra was very strong and incredible throughout the whole performance and really stood out. The set was student painted and with such detail it was almost hard to believe. The show was overall incredible and the energy never left the building, leaving the audience full of energy even after the show had ended.

Olivia Hunt
Langley High School
Submitted for publication to The Sentinel

Through wild mishaps, cases of mistaken identity, and puns galore, South Lakes High School presented "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" with organized chaos.

Set in Ancient Rome, this comedic musical follows Pseudolus, a scrappy slave who schemes to earn his freedom by helping his master chase the girl of his dreams. The show was written by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Making its Broadway debut in 1962, the musical won several Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and has since been made into a film.

As a central character, Arthur Payne as Pseudolus carried the show, with solid comedic timing and a bullish demeanor. He and his master, Hero, played by Mandip Bhadra, had great chemistry and bursting energy on stage. Hero's main slave, Hysterium (Jalen Robinson), was memorable in his frenzy of emotion and strong voice.

The females in this musical were, to say the least, showstopping. Mely Megahed as Hero's pompous mother, Domina, boasted beautiful operatic vocals, especially in the ballad to her estranged husband, "Dirty Old Man." Lily Dunlap was equally notable as Philia, the courtesan pined after by Hero, as she displayed hilarious airhead moments and impressive physicality throughout the show.

Several ensemble members were standouts in the show as well. The protean soldiers were a hoot, drawing roars of laughter from the audience with ridiculous slapstick and charming quirks. The courtesan women, on the other hand, were sultry and seductive, and achieved unity while retaining their character's individual personalities.

On the technical side, one of the most impressive aspects was the student-painted set. It featured three Roman houses, each with a door, window, and balcony from which hilarious mix-ups, pop-ups, and chases ensued. A working fountain added to the aura of Ancient Rome, while a tarp in the background changed colors to reflect that of the character having a solo.

The student orchestra never missed a beat and was unique in its interaction with the actors on several occasions.

The cast and crew of South Lakes High School pulled off a spirited show that would make the Gods would be proud.

Brianna Mastrolembo
Dominion High School
Submitted for publication to The Sentinel

Along with the obvious humor of seeing vicious Roman soldiers donning (scandalously short) dresses, South Lakes High School's production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum had an underlying wit that made it humorous for people of all ages.

Originally performed on Broadway in 1962, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, written by Stephen Sondheim, was a startling success and has won prestigious awards such as the Tony Award for Best Musical and Best Author. The musical highlights the story of a cunning slave named Pseudolus, who will do anything to attain freedom. His owner, Hero, is hopelessly in love, and Pseudolus jumps at the opportunity to wager a deal with him. If Pseudolus can make the beautiful Philia fall in love with Hero, Hero will grant him his freedom. Things don't go quite as easily as Pseudolus would have hoped, however, and the obstacles, ranging from creating a sleeping potion to dressing fellow slave Hysterium up as a fake dead Philia to distract a mighty Roman captain, stack up.

The entire cast exuded high energy, creating a vivacious and exciting performance. South Lakes is clearly gifted with many talented dancers, and the school used them to their full advantage. The Courtesans, composed of Isabel Edgerton, Celia Konowe, Zophia Pryzby, Amirah Kirwan, and others set the bar high when they danced across the stage, with beautiful lyrical and acrobatic moves. Even the group of Proteans, while never actually speaking, did a great job moving in sync and their classic slapstick humor aided to the overall comical theme of the show.

A true standout in this musical was Mely Megahed, who played Hero's mother, Domina. Megahed's strong, opera - like vocals captured the domineering nature of Domina perfectly.

Almost a paradox of each other, Hysterium, a high enery and hardworking slave played by Jalen Robinson, and Pseudolus, a sly, laid back slave played by Arthur Payne worked together well and had a convincing and comical friendship. Payne's dryness led to a more thought provoking humor by interpreting his slightly raunchy puns and underlying wit.

To compliment the actors, a simple, but meticulously detailed set showed the hard work of the set and stage crew. The behind-the-scenes work went off without a hitch.

Overall, South Lakes put on a winning and hilarious performance of a classic tale.