“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” a Rousing Success

The opening night production of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” with Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim was a rousing success. The book is by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart. The show is Directed by Rosemary Cline. The co-producers are Rosemary Cline and Andrew Botsford. This show often called, “One of American theatre’s most raucous and irresistible musicals,” is the final production of the Hampton Theatre Company’s 2023-2024 season. The show is running through June 9 at the Quogue Community Hall. The company’s 39th season is dedicated to Don and Judy Gruhn, Quogue residents and longtime friends and supporters of the HTC.

Make no mistake about the ability of Nicholas Auletti (as Prologus/Pseudolus) to not only carry a show but bring an audience to their feet. Leading the cast through the famed number, “Comedy Tonight,” is what live theater is all about. Then there was Jamie Baio (Hero), who charmed and with his enthusiasm brought a youthful energy and talent to the production. He also is a past Peter Marbury Scholarship recipient.

Hampton Theatre Company icon Andrew Botsford (Lycus) is excellent especially when he delivered the song, “The House of Lycus.” Matthew Conlon (Gloriosus) brings his usual outstanding stage presence, experience and gravitas that has made him so well respected and revered. He totally commands the song, “ Bring Me A Bride.” Conlon is the king of dramatic entrances.

Mary Conley (Philia) talents enchant on so many levels. Her beautiful singing voice enchants and delivers. Her movements perfect. She is a talent.

Tom Ciorciari (Hysterium) is also excellent especially when he captivated the audience with his singing solo, “I’m Calm.”

The audience identified with Bob Kaplan (Senex), especially when he sang, “Everybody Ought to Have a Maid,” with Jessica Howard(Domina), who delightfully was entertaining as his wife, the applause for their effort was thunderous.

Kudos and accolades to George A. Loizides (Erronius/3^rd Warrior) and Thomas Milton (Protean) for their performance along with Matt Fama (Protean).

Throughout the production Esmeralda Cabrera (Tintinabula), Alissa Dabrowski (Vibratta), Livvie Hirshfield (Gymnasia), Dara Lifschutz (Panacea), brought a beautiful energy to their roles.

The show demonstrates another layer of the vison and talent of Director Rosemary Cline. She smartly moves her actors around the stage and presents this musical in totally high feather.

Music Director Dee Laveglia on the  keyboard accompanist was flawless. The choreography by Nora Moutrane dazzled. Excellent Set design by Ricky Bottenus as was the scenic painting by Ron Becker. The lighting design by Sebastian Paczynski was perfect as was the sound design by Jonathan Presto. Great job, Teresa Lebrun with the costumes. 

Performances of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” will run from May 23 through June 9 on Thursdays and Fridays at 7, Saturdays at 8, and Sundays at 2:30. An additional matinee performance will be offered on Saturday, June 8, at 2:30, prior to the regular 8 p.m. performance that evening. Two talkbacks with the cast will be offered to ticketholders immediately following the May 31 and June 7 Friday evening performances. 

Tickets are available at hamptontheatre.org.