The tour won't begin until Sept. 1998, but producers have already chosen a lead for the U.S. national tour of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum: Rip Taylor.
He's best known as host of TV's "$1.98 Beauty Show" but has also done feature film cameos (Wayne's World) and previous stage work.
According to spokesperson Michael Vergoth (of Big League Touring), Forum auditions for other roles are projected for April 1998.
For tickets ($25-$75) and information on Broadway Forum call (212) 239-6200.