Hilarity paves way to 'Forum'

BY BARBARA TRAININ BLANK 
FOR THE PATRIOT-NEWS

New isn’t always better.

The "marriage" of the ancient Roman comedies of Plutus and vaudeville that produced "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" remains as fresh as it was when the show opened on Broadway in 1962. "Forum," with its book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart and music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, stays enduringly popular in part because none of its nonstop jokes falls flat.

Theatre Harrisburg’s production of "Forum" is so funny that this reviewer almost neglected to take notes.

Following in the footsteps of such comic greats as Zero Mostel and Nathan Lane is no easy feat Anthony MC. Leukus erases those images, bringing an original spin to the demanding lead role.

His is a less physical, less leering Pseudolus than some, relying more on the wit and wiliness of the would-be freed slave.

It’s a delight to have Thomas G. Hostetter, who also directed, back onstage as actor. His portrayal of the put-upon "slave-in-chief" Hysterium, complete with a barely controlled mania and rich facial expressions, is worth the price of a ticket.

As Senex, the henpecked husband who cautions listeners " to fall in love during a total eclipse," Jay Krevsky makes us feel both his long suffering and displaced lust.

Pam Eusi brings a fine voice and commanding humor to the role of the "henpecker."

J. Clint Allen effortlessly conveys the callowness and ardor of their lovesick son, Hero, and is a strong singer to boot.

In her Theatre Harrisburg debut, the pretty Katie Janes "dumbs down" and sings well as Philia, the love interest who can’t spell or add but can absolutely look "lovely."

David M. Fisher, who also was responsible for the scenic design, is properly pompous as Gen. Miles Gloriosus. Raymond Enders is an appropriately oily Marcus Lycus, procurer of beautiful women.

If ever a part was small in the number of lines but vital to the proceedings, it’s that of Erronius. Robin Dorff gets well-deserved, action-stopping laughs as the dottering old man searching for his children.

Kudos go as well to the courtesans and the three Proteans — Eric Pope, Richard William Steven III and Ryan Peers — who assume more roles than you can count.

Music director Richard Askey served up a pulsating score, while Joyce Freeman created the sensuous dances of the courtesans as well as the general cavorting of the players.

The laughs come so fast and furious here that you won’t mind the age difference between this Miles and Philia, who are supposed to be . . . oops! You’ll have to find out for yourself. But don’t worry, you won’t be disappointed for one frolicking moment.