LIHUE — Normally, we would not write a play review for one that is over. But this is one such time we will do exactly that because “A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum” was that good.
The musical comedy written by Stephen Sondheim and directed by Arnold Meister has sold out all 16 shows, with the final performances this weekend. If you saw this play by the Kauai Community Players, you know why tickets were in demand. Meister has gained a reputation as a superb director, the cast is top notch with wonderful singing voices, the setting is colorful and bright and this production, frankly, is just a whole lot of fun. It starts strong and finishes stronger. Amazingly, it manages to pick up the pace even more in the final scenes.
A Funny Thing is more than funny. It’s clever. It’s smart. It’s delightful. Sometimes, it’s moving so quickly, you can miss the creativity of the lines if you’re not paying attention. But this is one musical where your attention should not wane.
While the entire cast is sharp and talented, there are three actors who show great stage range and stand out in A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum.
Let’s start with Jeff Elkins, who plays the lead role of a slave named Pseudolus, who is trying to win his freedom by helping his young master win over the girl next door. Elkins played this role more than three decades ago, also under the direction of Meister. He seems not to have aged. His character is gregarious and spontaneous. His energy level runs at high from start to finish. His mind, you can tell, never stops calculating how to get the best of each situation. He draws in the audience with a smile and a glint in his eyes. His charisma and charm come across loud and clear and it’s impossible not to root for this guy. He carries one scene to the next and we’re glad to follow along.
Ross Martineau plays Hysterium, a servant who is the head of the household while the master is away. Martineau is the master of facial expression. His body language is enough to tell a story. He sings and dances with joy. And without giving away too much, he proves he can play any role well, including a role you would not expect. He steals some scenes with his creativity.
Ron Woods plays Senex, the master who leaves his home for a short trip, then returns unexpectedly. Woods, another stage veteran, has played serious roles and delivered strong performances. Here, he is called upon to deliver laughs, to make people smile, and he does so with great success. Woods is a subtle actor. He does not beat the audience with his words. He casts his lines out for the crowd to catch. His expression and line when he believes a beautiful young woman is offering herself to him are perfect.
And, of course, we would be remiss if we didn’t credit Meister with once again putting together a complete show, with words, music, costumes, setting, pace and an ending that somehow pulls this crazy show together. He continues to direct shows that go beyond what one might expect, pulling the best from his cast and crew.
Like we said, this show sold out and is done. It was beyond funny.
