It's that time of year again: Young men and women run amuck in colorful costumes, dancing provocatively and even singing aloud. A Rugby Halloween? Not exactly. These talented University students are the First Year Players.
This fall, the First Year Players are bringing Stephen Sondheim's "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" to the University. This entertaining musical runs from Thursday to Sunday at the Student Activities Building.
"A Funny Thing" follows the adventures of Pseudolus, a Greek slave who is desperate for freedom. When he finds that his master Hero is in love with a virgin prostitute Phillia, there emerges a glimmer of hope -- if Pseudolus can procure Phillia for Hero, he will secure his own freedom.
Of course, things are never easy -- Pseudolus must deal with a sea captain (Phillia's rightful owner), a pimp, a paranoid fellow slave, a case of mistaken identities involving Hero's father, and countless other obstacles. Along the way there are numerous songs, dances and even trips to a nearby brothel.
Obviously, one does not have to be a classics major to appreciate the humor of the show. In fact, many of the talented young men and women performing have not even declared their majors yet. The First Year Players are a student-run organization that places a special emphasis on first years, who fill all the character roles and are supported behind the scenes by other University students. Davin Rosborough, director of the show, spoke of the unique makeup of FYP.
"Even in the technical aspects of the show, there is a strong first-year presence," Rosborough said. "It's hard to get into Culbreth productions as a first year, and this experience really serves as a springboard for other shows as well as a creative outlet for first year students."
"FYP is a social group, too," Rosborough adds. "It really builds a sense of community, especially among first years."
Indeed, the FYP members appear to be a close-knit and incredibly talented group. Horace Ballard, who plays Hero, agrees with this assessment. "Few other universities provide first years the opportunity to work with real costumes and orchestras," he said. "As a person new to the state, new to Charlottesville, it is a great way to get to know people. The atmosphere is laid back, but the final product is quality."
Chat Hull (Hero's father, Senex) lauds the cast's "talent and dedication."
"Everyone is amazing," Hull said. "They pick up their blocking in seconds and can easily sight-read music."
These skills are evident as one watches the group's performance. The company sounds marvelous, the plot is entertaining and the choreography is playful and provocative.
An especially notable scene takes place in a brothel and showcases the dancing skills of numerous prostitutes, each possessing her own very special traits.
"There are a lot of different flavors, a real variety in dance styles -- it's a more mature show than other musicals," cast member Tricia Kolar said.
Ballard agrees. "The show is a little risque, but not over the top. There's something in it for everyone."
Indeed, if one enjoys laughing aloud, this is a perfect show to attend. Bawdy at times, sly at others, "A Funny Thing" makes its intentions known from the start, proclaiming that the audience is going to get a "comedy tonight!" in the title song.
Most of the laughs stem from the ridiculous scenarios in which Pseudolus finds himself.
"He's willing to do whatever he has to do to get his freedom," said Nate Patten, who plays the part of Pseudolus. "Silly mix-ups stretch him to his utmost limits."
Just one of the many mix-ups in the show has Hero's father Senex believing that the rather dim-witted Phillia is the new, rather promiscuous maid, prompting a lively song and dance number, "Everybody Ought to Have a Maid."
Such character types (the dull but beautiful girl, the leering older man) might have reached stereotype status, but that's what makes the play so amusing, Rosborough said.
"It is a really funny show with familiar character types," he said. "The best way to deal with a stereotype is to play it up, make it ridiculous. That's what we've done."
Though there is nothing ridiculous about the talent of the cast, the idea of entertainment for entertainment's sake is echoed by Hull.
"Actors more talented than I have ever seen before put on a hilarious tale of pure entertainment," Hull said. "No need to ponder deep issues -- just enjoy yourself."
If one wants a quiet night of Greek tragedy, curl up with a copy of "Oedipus Rex." If one is feeling a bit more lively, however, head over to the Student Activities Building this weekend and enjoy a great night of laughs made brought to U.Va. by the First Year Players.
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