Florida Theatre and Theatre Jax present an “in concert” production of the Broadway musical A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and a book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart, A Funny Thing is a bawdy, wild comedy inspired by the farces of the ancient Roman playwright Plautus (254–184 BC). Opening with a bang with the song “Comedy Tonight,” the musical tells the story of Pseudolus, a slave who tries to win his freedom by helping his young master woo the girl next door. All the elements of a classic farce are present: puns, slamming doors, mistaken identities and social commentary. The original production won 6 Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

This “in concert” Broadway production features a full 26-piece symphony orchestra on stage with a 30-member chorus, conducted by Jacksonville native Joey Chancey, whose Broadway credits include An American in Paris; Beautiful, The Carole King Musical; Gigi; and Annie.

The production is directed by Jean Tait, whose credits include last year’s production of Mame in Concert, and Off Broadway including The Pearly Gates, Hijab at First Sight, The Proceedings, and It Gets Better.