Picture: Marc Brenner
It’s 10 years since Funny Girl, directed by Michael Mayer, transferred to the Strand’s Savoy Theatre, having initially opened Off-West End at the Menier Chocolate Factory, and later touring the UK following huge success in London.
To mark the production’s West End anniversary, Liberator Film has brought the film of this award-winning production to cinemas across the UK and Ireland for a limited run.
Starring Sheridan Smith as the formidable Fanny Brice, a role infamously portrayed by the iconic Barbra Streisand in the original Broadway production, and the late Darius Campbell playing the charming and sophisticated Nick Arnstein, this revival brought fresh energy to a timeless classic. Smith’s performance as Fanny Brice received rave reviews for its humour and sheer emotional depth, cementing the sold-out run’s success in London.
With standout hits including the much-loved ‘Don’t Rain On My Parade’, ‘People’ and ‘I’m the Greatest Star’, Funny Girl is returning to cinemas for everyone to enjoy.
The revival received major recognition, including nominations for both Best Musical Performance for Sheridan Smith and Best Musical Revival at the 2016 London Evening Standard Theatre Awards.
Screenings of the award-winning production began on 30 April in cinemas including Vue, Odeon, Showcase, Light, Savoy and many independent cinemas across the UK and Ireland.
Marina Holmes writes:
Nothing beats live theatre but it is a truly amazing experience seeing a musical like Funny Girl on the big screen. You can pick up on every expression and there is much better visibility than that from the Grand Circle.
Sheridan Smith is excellent as Fanny Brice, she brings a real sense of humanity and authenticity to the character in between the humorous quips. Her versatility is demonstrated in the way she can go from pulling funny faces to heartbreaking vulnerability – her skill is truly showcased here. The iconic songs are truly mesmerising to watch.
This is a Golden Age-style musical with big dance numbers, dramatic orchestrations and an emphasis on star power and in this aspect it delivers. The set design by Michael Pavelka and costumes by Matthew Wright encapsulate glitz and glamour. The backcloth depicting the view of an audience is particularly effective, immersing us in the behind-the-scenes biographical nature of the production.
The show is also interesting in the way it celebrates Fanny’s unique star persona in a theatrical world in which she doesn’t fit the stereotypical beauty standards. This theme remains relevant today.
While I found the plot somewhat lacklustre and old-fashioned elsewhere, this is a real treat for admirers of classic musicals and (of course) fans of Sheridan Smith. It’s a magical experience to be able to watch a show such as this in a cinema up close and personal. Plus it’s obviously considerably more affordable and accessible too!
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