THEATRE REVIEW: A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum

Millbrook Playhouse is having a terrific season. Last night we saw A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM and it had to be one of the best shows that I have seen there. All of the big musical talent in residence this summer is on the arena stage, but I will get to the actors later.

A special standing ovation goes to Dax Valdes, who was both director and choreographer. All seats in the house had a chance to see the dances, action and facial expressions of everyone on stage. In an arena stage that does not always happen. Believe me, you want to see faces. (Michael Bradshaw Flynn as Hysterium deciding that he really is “ Lovely” is priceless.) Watch for Dax’s name. He may be our next Gower Champion. He dance, sings, acts, directs, and shines as a choreographer.

Most of my favorite actors at Millbrook are in this show and they do not disappoint. The true “stop the show” number has to be “Everybody Ought To Have A Maid” with Tim Dietrick, Marc de la Concha, Michael Bradshaw Flynn, and Ted Cockley as Senex, Pseudolus, Hysternium, and Marcus Lycus, respectively. Their body language should have received at least an “R” rating.

Speaking of “R” rated body language, the courtesans have no speaking lines, but you notice them. Although all of the costumes in the show are out-standing, these girls really “ stood out”! They prove the old theater truism that there are no small parts only small actors. You will notice that some of these girls did not have “small parts” at all.

If you are anywhere near Mill Hall in the next two weeks, go see …FORUM. You will see all of the musical talent that I have been exclaiming over this summer and have yourself a very good evening.

P.S. I am going back on Sunday!