Reviewed by Cate Norris
Trying to make it as a showgirl was no mean feat for Fanny Brice (Natasha Barnes) in 1920’s New York, back then there wasn’t much appreciation for female comics. Showgirls were supposed to be gorgeous and graceful, there was no place for Fanny’s funny faces and falling over. That was until Fanny convinced agent Eddie Ryan (Joshua Lay) to give her a chance, thus changing her world forever, when she was spotted by famous showman, Florenz Ziefeld (Nigel Barber) and became a regular performer at ‘Ziefeld Follies’ and all over the world. Of course, the road to fame and fortune was not all buttercups and daisies. A difficult relationship with husband Nick Arnstein (Darius Campbell) ended in divorce, when he couldn’t cope with her success and she couldn’t cope with his gambling. The true pain of the funny girl was felt when she disclosed her need to be taken seriously and how she is just waiting for the ‘fun’ to start!
A lengthy introduction to the show, worked up an appetite, by slowly revealing a combination of colourful lighting and triumphant music, stimulating the senses and providing insight into to treats that lay instore. High energy chorus work, expertly created the atmosphere of each setting, which was most evident during the hustle and bustle of ‘Henry Street’ which left no doubt that this was a touring West End production. A surprising performance was given by Darius Campbell, who is probably best known to many from ‘Pop Idol’. Whilst it was evident that Campbell lacked dance training, he held his own. His vocal performance was effortless and he displayed an acting style worthy of respect. In addition, fine performances were offered by Nova Skipp as Mrs Brice and Zoe Ann Brown and Myra Sand as Mrs Meeker and Mrs Strakosh who provided some comic moments with Mrs Brice around the poker table.
The heart, soul and star of the show, however, was the very gorgeous and talented Natasha Barnes. With a great accent, smart timing, stunning vocal and plenty of expertly delivered one liners, Barnes had the audience in the palm of her hand. Then came her rendition of ‘Don’t Rain On My Parade’, goosebumps erupted at the surface of my skin, my breath stopped at the lump in my throat and pools of water began to form in my eyes. This was an outstanding performance and I urge you to watch Banes in Funny Girl and try to imagine another, more fitting for this role.
The Wolverhampton Grand is a captivating theatre which blows me away with its beauty. Situated right in the centre of the city, it is easily accessible and due to its location, offers options to extend the evening at the many surrounding bars or restaurants. Alternatively, private booths are available for hire within the theatre to make the most of the evening and generously stocked bars are situated on each level selling wines, beers, and soft drinks as well as sweets, chocolates, crisps and ice cream. Washroom facilities are located on each level too, which help to ensure that queuing is reduced and no time is lost during interval. Staff are friendly and ensure that theatre rules are abided by, which makes for a pleasant experience for all.
I would definitely recommend Funny Girl and give it an easy five star rating. It is funny, heart-warming and tells the true story of Fanny Brice. An outstanding cast, perfect score, stimulating set, it is a night out you won’t forget, which certainly will not rain on your parade!
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £23.50 to £46.50 (booking fees may apply).
Funny Girl is at the Wolverhampton Grand from 24-29 July 2017, for more information or to book tickets visit www.grandtheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01902 429 212.
The Grand Theatre Wolverhampton, Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1DE
