FUNNY GIRL on Broadway - Reviews & News Thread — Page 55

Paula Wayne recently passed away:

https://www.broadway.com/buzz/194019/paula-wayne-golden-voiced-broadway-star-of-golden-boy-dead-at-84/

Updated On: 4/22/22 at 09:56 AM

Dear Everyone,

I truly hope that at some point this thread gets back on topic:

FUNNY GIRL on Broadway - News & Discussion Thread

Gracias.

Show opens on Sunday! Any thoughts for how reviews will end up?

I'm honestly unsure because I've heard such mixed reactions to the production itself. With some other shows with miscast leads, there was a general consensus that the production itself was phenomenal (Company comes to mind, specifically). I think Funny Girl could end up being a lot more divisive. I feel like I've heard everything from "this production is perfect, I just wish Beanie could sing better" to "this production is a massive mess and it goes far beyond Beanie's singing abilities" with solid frequency at each end and all points in between.

With the exception of "People," which was full-on SNL Laura Parsons, I thought Beanie commanded the stage much more during the musical numbers than in the book scenes, but I never believed that she was "the greatest star," which I consider a fatal flaw. Of all the critics, I'm most curious to read Helen Shaw's thoughts, since her reviews are always so thoughtful and well-written.

I think the title will keep it afloat regardless of how the reviews play out.

joevitus said: "Bette's Turban said: "joevitus said: "CarlosAlberto said: "if people are paying upwards of $200 for a Broadway show then mediocrity is not what should be served.

And those that did and felt cheated have every right to express their displeasure."

What should be served is whatever people want to pay to see. And audiences are clearly loving this production. Even the people who are writing negative responses acknowledge that.

I myself think this revival looks pretty bad. I also think the show isn't going to open or close based on the standards held by the people posting here. The constant obsession with badmouthing this production is childish."

I do not think it is childish at all. It is a highly anticipated revival that opens this weekend. People spend their hard earned money and get emotionally involved one way or the other. Social media and chat rooms is a way for them to praise or vent. As much or as little as they want. People are actually being nice here. You should read some of the FB theater groups."

The people complaining loudest and most repeatedly haven't even seen it, so yeah, it's pretty childish."

Your the one that keeps coming back to get into it with everyone . You and that nutty guy that says he hasn’t seen it , but drives around the theater at night to gage the audience response . Very creepy . Very desperate . Very sad.

Azúcar! said: "Your the one that keeps coming back to get into it with everyone . You and that nutty guy that says he hasn’t seen it , but drives around the theater at night to gage the audience response . Very creepy . Very desperate . Very sad."

This is about FUNNY GIRL, the revival..... Why are we criticizing the activity of others? I did not say I drive around the theater like some maniacal stalker. I passed by and took advantage of an opportunity that was presented. You put a spin on it and "YOU'RE" (which is a contraction for you are) making this about me.

I have zero interest in getting into it with anybody here. I want to celebrate this revival. Let's hold a good thought.

Hmm, I wonder if anyone can detect the difference between these two "Funny Girl" logos...

and no, I am not referring to the colors...

Updated On: 4/22/22 at 03:03 PM

I feel more positively about Feldstein's overall performance than many in this thread (and beyond), but "toast of the town?"

Not on your life.

I saw the show last night. My thoughts:
This score has been a lifelong favorite! Growing up, my sisters can tell you I wore out both the original Broadway cast album and the movie soundtrack. It sounds wonderful here…that overture…Thrilling!
This production is beautifully staged. Beanie Feldstein is not a great singer (and it's truly disappointing to hear People and The Music That Makes Me Dance in all their beauty fail to land with Beanie’s nasal and somewhat unpleasant tone) but she's endearing and hilarious. Ramin Karmiloo is as handsome and dashing and tragic as you would hope! Jane Lynch is a delight! Jared Grimes astonishes as Eddie - his tap dancing is dazzling. The whole cast is terrific. The theater was packed with people who seemed extremely happy to be there...the roar at the end of both times Beanie sings "Don't Rain On My Parade" was the sound of all of us who've been starved for musical comedy joy for too long!

Updated On: 4/22/22 at 04:31 PM