Show Plot Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

Authors: Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart (book), Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics)

Time Period: Around 200 BC, during a spring day

Setting: A public street in ancient Rome

Summary: Pseudolus is a lazy, clever slave who wants his freedom. When his young master, Hero, falls deeply in love with Philia—a virgin living in the neighboring brothel—Pseudolus makes a deal. If he can unite Hero and Philia, Hero will grant him his freedom.  The plot spirals out of control with wild lies, fake potions, frantic running through doors, and cases of mistaken identity.