Notre Dame Student Review: Bishop DuBourg Show is Crowd Pleaser

By Bridget Biundo of Notre Dame High School

Something familiar, something peculiar, stunning surprises, and cunning disguises. There was something for everyone at Bishop DuBourg High School’s production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.

"A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" takes place in Ancient Rome where Pseudolus (Mario Meyer), slave to the House of Senex, tries to win his freedom by helping his master Hero (Jordan Wolk) win over his love. As his plan becomes more complicated through schemes and lies, Pseudolus must find a way for Hero to get the girl while gaining his freedom.

Bishop DuBourg’s cast kept the audience laughing with quick comedic timing and constant energy throughout the entire production.

Mario Meyer, who played Pseudolus, brought life to the stage with his abounding energy and hilarious characterizations. Meyer’s acting skills were supported by his strong vocals, especially during the song “Free.” Evan Turek portrayed Hysterium, the always-worrying slave, with great comedic timing and gusto. The two stayed in their distinctive characters throughout the entire show. Jordan Wolk portrayed the character of Hero with great sincerity, his resonant voice showing Hero’s loving personality.

Hannah Gibbons had a strong stage presence as Domina and was able to take charge of her character on stage effortlessly. Although not on stage for long, Vincent Wienhoff brought much comedy to the stage as the old man, Erronius. The cast’s timing proved important in the final chase scene, and they were right on point, for great effect. One of the standout performances of the night was the song “Everybody Ought to Have a Maid”. The number combined many of the vocal talents of the actors and was entertaining.

The set, simply staged, was well done, complete with its effective second story windows.   Each person on stage was able to be heard without difficulty, their voices blending well with the orchestra. The costumes were fitting for the show.

There certainly was something for everyone at Bishop DuBourg High School’s production of "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum."

This review was submitted by The Cappies, a program that trains high school theater and journalism students as critics. The students then attend shows at other schools, write reviews and publish those reviews in local news outlets. At the end of the year, student critics vote for awards that are presented at a formal Cappies Gala.