By Joanie Cox-Henry
Funny Girl Dazzles at Kravis with Heart and Showstopping Numbers
From the moment the first notes of the overture filled the Alexander W. Dreyfoos Concert Hall last week, it was clear that this revival of Funny Girl would be something special. The national tour, which graces the Kravis Center stage through Feb. 2, delivered a sumptuous feast of classic Broadway magic that reminded us why this show has endured for nearly 60 years.
Hannah Shankman inhabited the role of Fanny Brice with infectious enthusiasm and remarkable vocal prowess. Her rendition of "Don't Rain on My Parade" brought the house down, while her tender delivery of "People" captured the vulnerable heart beating beneath Fanny's brash exterior. Shankman made the role her own—no small feat given its iconic status—by emphasizing Fanny's scrappy determination and raw talent rather than trying to replicate past interpretations.
Stephen Mark Lukas brought a compelling complexity to Nick Arnstein, masterfully charting his character's descent from charming gambler to wounded pride.
The lavish production values transported us to the glittering world of early 20th-century vaudeville and the Ziegfeld Follies. From the sumptuous costumes to the high-energy choreography, every element worked in perfect harmony to create a feast for the eyes and ears. Particularly memorable was Izaiah Montaque Harris as Eddie, whose spectacular tap numbers brought an extra jolt of electricity to the already dynamic ensemble.
This production of Funny Girl really evoked the pure joy of classic musical theater. It's a triumph that honored both the original production and the timeless appeal of an underdog story well told. The standing ovation that followed the finale was not just deserved – it was inevitable.
Funny Girl continues its tour across North America. For the latest dates in a city near you, visit https://funnygirlonbroadway.com/.
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