“You think beautiful girls are going to stay in style forever? I should say not! Any minute now they’re going to be out! Finished! Then it’ll be my turn!”
And her turn did indeed come. Fania Borach, better known as Fanny Brice, got her turn in the Vaudeville spotlight as one of the most famous female comedians of all time. The 1964 Broadway production “Funny Girl” follows the story of Brice’s career and personal life (with some creative editorializations), and the 1968 film version made the show even more popular. Now, on its first national tour, the show is being revitalized for all to enjoy.
The tour stars Katerina McCrimmon as Fanny Brice, and Melissa Manchester as Fanny’s mother, Rose Brice. The plot follows Fanny, a young woman who has big dreams of being on the stage (“I’m the Biggest Star”) but struggles to land roles because of her looks (“If a Girl Isn’t Pretty”), but is soon adored for her comedic talents. Though the production and musical score are now 60 years old, the tale is timeless and still revered. “The story is about Fanny Brice, a real life Vaudevillian star, and her triumph and her will,” said Manchester. “It made a star out of Barbara Streisand…but I really believe it has grown into this moment in time. I think it resonates with people even more now. It’s a beautiful show.”
From November 12-17, audiences will recognize iconic numbers like “People” and “Don’t Rain on My Parade.” The classic big Broadway feel to the music and staging is sure to delight all audiences, whether being introduced to Fanny for the first time or nostalgically singing along to her adventures.
For tickets and info, visit ticketomaha.com/productions/funny-girl.
