[MHoward]

I work at the local university and heard that they will be doing Forum next year. I have always wanted to do the role of Psuedolus, being as I am a bit overweight, jolly, and a character actor really into over the top characters.

Confession: I do not know the show very well at all. I plan on purchasing the cast recording this weekend. I have, however done Side By Side By Sondheim, singing Comedy Tonight (which I adore).

First, does anyone have audition song suggestions? I was thinking Rich Man from Fiddler or Say it in Yiddish from MesshugaNuns! I figure something that I can play around with and be a bit over the top? Does anyone have suggestions on other songs or if either of these would be appropriate?

Second, I am 37 working at the local university. I take classes there (for fun), but not theatre. How should I approach this audition? I am thinking of play up my physical features and age as assets? (I assume they are for the role of Psuedolus) Also, I am not over confident at being cast as Psuedolus since first, I am not a theatre major and second, the school uses these shows for student's senior projects. If I am not cast as Psuedolus are there other parts that I would be apropriate for?

Any suggestions or comments will be greatly appreciated!

[Sweeney Hyde]

The great thing about Forum is that practically anyone can be cast in any role (age appropriate). You can also buy the libretto from amazon. Don't watch the film. It is not an accuarte interpretation of the show, nor is it that good, except for Buster KEaton, Mostel, and Gilford's performances.

Don't do If I Were a Rich Man. It is horribly overdone. Look at some of the material from The Producers, Dirty Rotten Scoundrals, and The Frogs if you can get your hands on the vocal selections.

[MHoward]

Thanks for the advise. I will look at soemthing from the Producers. Also, Iwill purchase the libretto from Amazon. Awesome!

[NathenDetroit741]

If you're looking into The Producers, i would reccomend something along the lines of King of Broadway or even Betrayed (although it is more of a spoken song) i wouldn't do anything by Leo because his character isn't as over the top as Max. But remember not to emulate Nathan Lane because he played Psuedulous too.

[dwarves r very upsetting]

If your not familar with the show I would also check out the synopsis on wikipedia.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Funny_Thing_Happened_On_the_Way_to_the_Forum

although stageagent isn't always accurate it gives you a good over view of all the characters.

http://stageagent.com/shows.php?id=726

[MHoward]

Thanks! I now have the libretto.