A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
By Stephen Sondheim
Inspired by the farces of the ancient Roman playwright Plautus (251–183 BC), specifically Pseudolus, Miles Gloriosus, and Mostellaria, the musical tells the bawdy story of a slave named Pseudolus and his attempts to win his freedom by helping his young master woo the girl next door. The plot displays many classic elements of farce, including puns, the slamming of doors, cases of mistaken identity (frequently involving characters disguising themselves as one another), and satirical comments on social class. The title derives from a line often used by vaudeville comedians to begin a story: "A funny thing happened on the way to the theater".
The musical's original 1962 Broadway run won several Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Author (Musical). A Funny Thing has enjoyed several Broadway and West End revivals and was made into a successful film starring the original lead of the musical, Zero Mostel.
Produced by Theatre Unlimited, Inc. at Janesville Performing Arts Center, 408 South Main Street, Janesville
Performances: September 15-24, 2017
Performance Times:
Sept 15th, 16th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd at 7:30p
Sept 16th, 17th and 24th at 2pTicket Prices: $21
Call 608-758-0297 for reservations or more information.
Auditions
Auditions will be held on the following days:
7/5/2017
7/6/2017Theatre Unlimited, Inc. Presents A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum Auditions
Wednesday, July 5th at 6:30p
at UCC First Congregational Church - 54 So Jackson Street, Janesville
Use side door on Dodge StreetThursday, July 6th at 6:30p
at Janesville Performing Arts Center - 408 S Main Street, JanesvilleFor auditions please be prepared to do a cold reading and sing a song of your choice. Piano accompaniment will be provided (bring your own sheet music). You only need to attend one night to audition. Any questions, contact Dave Bitter - dcbitter@me.com. Show dates are September 15th through September 24th. We look forward to seeing you!