A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

This early Stephen Sondheim show dates back to 1962. The Sacramento Theatre Company first staged it 30 years ago, and the Music Circus and community groups have done it, too. But as a musical farce set in ancient Rome, Forum’s aged better than many shows of its era. And, as this lively production proves, it’s still a very funny piece.

Michael R.J. Campbell has a blast as the clever slave Pseudolus, improvising his way out of trouble repeatedly. Campbell expends vast amounts of energy, running this way and that, while shifting through a wide range of rubbery facial expressions. He’s the centerpiece in a well-picked cast.

Veteran Joe Vincent (who first appeared at STC 50 years ago, and graduated to Shakespeare festivals and Broadway) plays old Senex, lusting after a nubile slave (while trying to keep this a secret from his bossy wife Domina, played by Lenore Sebastian). Statuesque Jacob L. Smith struts and preens (and sings well) as a Roman commander.

Matt Surges (a lead in New Helvetia Theatre’s recent production of the dark 1994 Sondheim show about manipulative romance, Passion) hits the opposite extreme as Hero, a guileless, lovestruck son of wealthy parents. Scottie Woodard doubles as the slave Hysterium and the choreographer of several silly dance numbers. Costumer Jessica Minnihan puts suitably provocative outfits on the seven courtesans (this is a farce, and sexual slavery is fodder for laughs).

Director Michael Laun piles up overlapping schemes and plot reverses with panache. A live band (rather than recorded instrumentals), would have been nice. But otherwise, this production clicks on most levels.