“Fanny” Girl - by Claire Huss

 “Fanny” Girl

Certain musicals rely on an ensemble to hide the imperfections in the writing. Funny Girl puts this responsibility on its lead, Fanny Brice. Funny Girl follows the life and trials of up-and-coming comedienne Fanny Brice and explores her rocky relationship with Nick Arnstein. The show has been criticized as a superficial star vehicle without much of a sustainable plot, and despite how much I enjoyed the ensemble, I must agree. When Barbara Streisand originated the role of Fanny in 1964, the show cemented her status as a performer and boosted her fame instantly. 

 

The spellbinding Katerina McCrimmon steals the show as Fanny. Her commanding stage presence, acting, and dancing make her a delight to watch. But what really sold her to me was her voice. McCrimmon’s voice is clear, exceptionally on-pitch, and piercingly emotional. It is hard to pick a singular song she shines on, but her “The Music That Makes Me Dance '' had me weeping in my seat. 

That being said, I recognize that McCrimmon is not of Jewish descent. Without a Jewish actress, the endearing stereotypes Fanny portrays become less playful and more of a mockery. The true story of Fanny Brice, a trailblazing Jewish woman, is minimalized without the vital aspect of her identity. While McCrimmon is an outstanding performer and played Fanny wonderfully, she is ultimately not the right person for this part.

Though I may sound like Fanny carries the entire show on her back, the ensemble provides necessary storytelling aspects. The beautiful full-cast vocals in every Ziegfeld Follies scene, specifically “His Love Makes Me Beautiful”, allow the ensemble to show off musical talent while donning metallic costumes. From butterfly wings, to Cornet Men, to Fanny’s various outfits, Susan Hilferty’s costumes masterfully characterize every actor in a given moment. 

 Not only did the ensemble shine in their costumes, but the choreography by Ellenore Scott and tap dancing by Ayodele Casel allowed them to show off their dance skills. Izaiah Montaque Harris as Eddie is a standout dancer. His gorgeous tap routines were rhythmic, engaging, and dazzling. His acting was also spectacular, but dancing is how I will remember his performance. 

So, should you see Funny Girl? It depends. The plot is fun and silly in the first act with many different songs and stunning solos from McCrimmon, but the second act completely shifts tonally and drags. Despite the writing of the show working against them, somehow the cast makes this show work. You must be wary of McCrimmon’s depiction of Brice knowing her ethnic background, but if you can set all of these factors aside, Funny Girl will at least be pleasant for one act.