A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

Musical

Writers: Larry Gelbart Burt Shevelove Stephen Sondheim

Overview

Show Information

Category
Musical
Number of Acts
2
Tony Award®
Best Musical 1963
First Produced
1962
Genres
Comedy, Farce, Romance
Settings
Unit/Single Set
Time & Place
8th century bc
Cast Size
large
Orchestra Size
Medium
Dancing
Musical Staging
Ideal for
College/University, Community Theatre, Diverse Cast, High School, Large Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Star Vehicle Male
Casting Notes

Includes adult, mature adult, young adult, late teen, elderly characters

Synopsis

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum is a fast-paced farce that promises to have audiences rolling on the floor. Taking straight from the roots of comedy, Forum combines the ancient comedies of Plautus with a vaudevillian delivery. Pseudolus schemes to win the heart of the beautiful virgin, Phelia, for his young master, Hero. In exchange, Hero will grant Pseudolus his freedom once and for all. However, things are never as easy as they seem. Chaos ensues with hair-brained schemes, cases of mistaken identity, slamming doors and convoluted plot twists. One of the funniest musicals ever written, Forum promises: “Something for everyone: a comedy tonight!”

Lead Characters

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum guide sections