Utah State University Eastern’s final stage production of the current school year, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum”, will open up Thursday at the Peterson Black Box Theatre inside the CIB building on the school’s campus.
Directed by Theatre Professor Corey Ewan, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” is a musical, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondehim, and book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart. The stage production inspired a British-American DeLuxe Color musical comedy film that was released in 1966.
“Its a musical show that takes place in Rome, and it focuses on chaos that ensues with three households,” said stage manager Josh Demie. “One of the main characters falls in love with someone from a Roman Brothel.”
Demie, a freshman at USU-Eastern, is working as a stage manager for the first time in his theatre career. The production itself will consist of students, and community members that are well known for their acting.
“It is very reminiscent of an old sixties comedy film with misalignment’s,” said actor Dave Hocanson, who plays the role of Marcus Lycus. “Its a fun show so far from the parts that I have been involved in, and I think the audience will enjoy it.”
Scenic designer and Associate Professor Brent Innes has created the show’s only set piece, known as a Periaktos, which ties back into the days of Greek Dramas. The piece is a revolving triangular prism made of wood. Each side features a different pictured scene to represent the three locations featured throughout the show.
Preparation for the production began in March, and the crew has worked tirelessly to prepare for an eight show run. The first opportunity for the community to see the show will be on Thursday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m., the doors will open at 7:00. Additional showings will take place Friday and Saturday, and will continue Monday through Friday next week.
Tickets will be available at the door, and seating for each show will be limited due to the size of the Peterson Black Box. Regular admission is $10.00 for adults, $7.00 for senior citizens, $1.00 for current USU-Eastern students with current ID, $5.00 for faculty and staff, and $5.00 for non USU-Eastern students.