IloveNYC2 said: "Would Annleigh Ashford be any good?
"
Good is not the issue. Lauren Ambrose was announced as Fanny for the revival that didn't happen several years ago. Ambrose in Funny Girl Cancelled I recall concern that Ambrose wouldn't sell tickets.
I saw it on the weekend. I was excited to see the show "on stage", as we all know its not produced as frequently anymore.
It wasn't groundbreaking, by my girlfriend who had no idea what the show was about or hasn't watched the movie really enjoyed it. The score is the star of the show, despite some of the performances.
"Temporary Arrangement" isn't quite work (especially with the choreography!) I want to say that Peter Gallagher performed this song as a lullaby to the baby in the 2002...or he performed something as a lullaby, and I liked that.
Sheridan Smith was good. I can't say that all the mugging was enjoyed. There were times, where I wanted Fanny to act more "grown up", especially in later scenes, but there was still that comedian aspect, although I guess Fanny Brice was always a comedian. I agree with the poster above, Smith constantly reminded me of Melissa McCarthy.
I will say that with the addition of the song "Funny Girl", "The Music That Makes Me Dance" fell flat. I would have preferred if they switched the numbers, and "Music" was the final song (minus the reprise of "Parade".
I have the original script somewhere, and I want to read it soon, to see the changes made. But, I will say that it was a great afternoon out, and I really enjoyed myself.
"Ok ok ok ok ok ok ok. Have you guys heard about fidget spinners!?" ~Patti LuPone
I kept trying to find information about screenings in Chicago, but the website only lists one screening at 2PM next Tuesday. WTF? Did it already play last month in Chicago? I could never find any info about it.
"What can you expect from a bunch of seitan worshippers?" - Reginald Tresilian