FORUM goes FEM! All-female identifying A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM opens today!

Australia’s vibrant theatre scene is set to make history this September with the groundbreaking production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum by Watch This, the country’s first and only Sondheim repertory company.

Taking place at Chapel Off Chapel, this reimagined classic Broadway musical promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience, as it features an all-female-identifying cast – a world-first achievement in the realm of musical theatre.

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum transports audiences to the heart of comedy, melding the timeless humor of Plautus, a Roman playwright from over two millennia ago, with the infectious energy of vaudeville. The story revolves around Pseudolus, who embarks on a riotous quest to win the hand of the beautiful courtesan Philia for his master, Hero, in exchange for his freedom. This fast-paced, witty, and irreverent farce is celebrated as one of the funniest musicals ever written.

Building on their previous success with Into the Woods, director Melanie Hillman, Music Director Trevor Jones, Set Designer Sarah Tulloch, and Lighting Designer Rob Sowinski reunite to bring this bold production to life. Choreographer Sophie Loughran, Assistant Director Bobbie-Jean Henning, and Costume Designer Jemima Johnston complete the creative team.

Melanie Hillman, the director of this groundbreaking production, expressed her hopes for the audience

I genuinely hope that audiences leave the theatre with a sore belly from laughing! But also, an appreciation of Sondheim’s craft and artistry, as well as an introduction, or reminder, of the joy of the ‘Vaudeville Farce’. I hope they see that women can be funny, and that feminine beauty and charisma comes in all different sizes, ages, and colors. And that you can have more than one middle-aged woman on a stage in this country.

Featuring a talented all-female cast of 10, including Charmaine Gorman, Milo Hartill, Jacqui Hoy, Mel O’Brien, Sophie Weiss, Luisa Scrofani, Cathy Woodhouse, Sarahlouise Younger, Judith Roberts, and Kristie Nguy, this production is set to challenge traditional theatrical norms and expectations. Watch This has earned a reputation for its fresh and innovative interpretations of Sondheim’s works in intimate spaces, leaving audiences in awe with their unique approach to storytelling. The critical acclaim for their previous productions speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence.

As Mel Hillman explains, “Whilst there will be no script changes, the audience will be asked to decide whether hearing words from a female voice overrides the antiquated tropes of the female characters. By changing who says the words, we may just encourage a modern audience to question the socially constructed gender roles that still exist and their own unconscious gender biases. Exploring themes of power, agency, and ambition through a female lens provides a platform for women’s voices and perspectives, where women’s experiences are valued and heard. Reviving a production from the 60s allows us to acknowledge how far we’ve come but how far we have to go. The concept for our production presents an opportunity for us to continue to platform female-identifying performers, creatives, and crew.”

Casting an all-female Forum challenges traditional gender roles deeply ingrained in the original material – by placing women at the forefront of this production, it not only provides a fresh and empowering perspective on the characters, but also sends a powerful message about the importance of diverse voices in theatre. This reimagining demonstrates that humour, charisma, and talent are not confined by gender, ultimately breaking down barriers and inspiring a more inclusive and equitable future for the performing arts.

---

For tickets and more information, please visit the Chapel Off Chapel website.