‘Funny Thing’ is happening

By Sonya Ellingboe

“Friends, Romans and Countrymen, lend me you ears” booms a voice as the audience settles. It goes on with the regular pre-theater message about cell phones and things that make noise and soon the wonderful Sondheim score kicks in to introduce Pseudolus and the full cast to sing “Comedy Tonight.”

Scott McLean ties the show together with his constant scheming as Pseudolus, the slave who wants his freedom. His convoluted path to attain that goal carries us through disguises, chases, flat-out lies and lots of lively, well-staged song and dance. In a role that can slip into schtick, the skilled McLean is always in control.

The pacing is smooth and steady throughout as actors mix it up and sort themselves out, while the three Proteans (Benjy Schirm, Chris Russell and Joe Majestic) make lightning changes from one part to another.

Director Bob Wells and choreographer Nick Sugar orchestrate a well-designed level of chaos through many of the scenes.

Voices are strong and clear and there are some great solos including “I’m Calm,” by Hysterium (Rob Janzen), who is generally anything but and “That Dirty Old Man” by Domina (the always comical Carla Kaiser Kotrc).

Tim Fishbaugh as Senex uses his eyes with particular skill to portray that dirty old man, while sweet-voiced Jacqui Jo Billlings, Philia and Drew Hirschboeck make welcome debuts at Town Hall as the romantic interest and Damian Guerrasio is the sleazy neighbor who trades in courtesans.

The bevy of courtesans are a colorful crew, each with special talents.

Keegan Flaugh has an especially choice part at the great military man Miles Gloriosus and milks it for all it’s worth. “I am a parade!” he declares. (His bio note says he’s a former Marine, “enjoying another military role.”) With tongue firmly in cheek.

It’s easy to understand why this clever musical won Tony Awards in 1982 and why it remains popular year after year. We can recognize these types in our society. They may even live next door!

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” runs through Feb. 5 at Town Hall Arts Center in downtown Littleton. It will be followed by “Brigadoon” in mid-February.