A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

On Sunday, April 27, the University of Dallas Spring 2008 Romers continued the Due Santi tradition of putting on a student-organized play. This semester, the students performed A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, a musical comedy appropriately set on a street in the Eternal City.

The play centers on the underhanded efforts of the crafty slave Pseudolus to earn his freedom. In order to do so, Pseudolus (convincingly portrayed by a sly Joey Pustejovsky) must help his young lovestruck master Hero (James West) win the affections of Philia, the girl next door. The only problem is that Philia (Monica Lacy) happens to be a courtesan who has already been sold to a boastful Roman soldier played by the armor-wearing Nick Thompson. Deceptions and confusion ensue as Pseudolus, with the assistance of his fellow slave Hysterium (Ben Chauvette), attempts to complete his plan.

Director Donny Covington excellently choreographed the play - which included authentic Roman costumes, any number of cases of mistaken identity, an elaborate chase scene, and several song and dance routines - for which musical accompaniment was provided by the talented Alex Richards on piano.

Without question, the play was a comedic success and offered much amusement for the large crowd of students, faculty, and staff who were in attendance.

-review by Ryan Reedy, Rome Coordinator 2007-08

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