Hello, thanks for your input!

I'm about to direct a production of A FUNNY THING HAPPENED... FORUM at a local high school, and I wanted to get some opinions.

Do you think this show is appropriate for a high school?  And for "family audiences"?

I have my own opinions (obviously I chose it), but I'd like to hear from other theater folk whether or not I'm crossing the line of appropriateness just because I am not offended by the material.

All opinions are welcomed!

The only problem I might think would come up is the plot around the whore house. I don't know how uptight people are, but since it's high school people may raise a stink. Other than that, anything that could be considered controversial (man dressing up in drag) seems like harmless fun.

But again, it depends on where you're performing it. Is it in a more liberal place up north or in Cali, or are you in one of the notches of the Bible Belt?

I think you can count on some negative remarks if you do this show in a high school.  We got some (maybe two) when we did it in community theatre -- one woman didn't want her daughter in the orchestra because of the topic  -- go figure... But I think it is a given that you will get objections.

I have a philosophy that if you are getting complaints it is a sign you are DOING SOMETHING.  If you were doing nothing you wouldn't get them at all.

Remember the well worn saying..."You can't please all of the people..."

Someone will likely object no matter what show you do...

That said, as a long time H. S. director...I suggest getting the approval and support (or at least the appearance of approval and support) of those "in power" before you begin anything...Here is how: have the principal and/or the head of your booster club and/or area director of dramatics OK the show...usually just be sending them an email saying you intend to do the show on these dates and offer a script for their reading pleasure. Mention the history of the show...you know, soft sell the show...things like: old show, big hit in NYC, made into movie, recently revived on Broadway, yada, yada...You will probably not get much of a response...but they didn't say "no" either...so now you are armed and ready for the persistant pests that may be out there.

I believe the show to be pretty tame...but CYA (cover your a**) is always the way to go.

Good Luck,

Countbio

Thanks for the replies folks!

I did exactly what you said (actually BEFORE I read your responses, but I'm glad to have gotten the same advice from you)... and the parents are really into the show.  The principal okayed the material -- without really taking a look at it -- but I do think I will have the backup support in case someone does come down on us.  And I am going to "tone it down a little" just to be safe.

The kids, by the way, are TOTALLY excited to do it.  Auditions are next week, we'll see...

Thanks again board, you guys are great!