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The Famous Faces of Fanny Brice
The hit musical “Funny Girl” follows the story of Fanny Brice, a young girl who dreams of being a star. This iconic role has been played by many iconic women during its time on Broadway and screen. Let’s give each of their versions of “Don’t Rain On My Parade” a listen.
Barbra Streisand
Let’s start from the very beginning! The opening of the original Broadway production of “Funny Girl” starred a young Barbra Streisand as Fanny Brice. Streisand played this lead from March 26, 1964, to July 1, 1967.
The hit Broadway musical was then adapted into a motion picture in 1968, where Streisand again brought Fanny Brice to life. Streisand won an Academy Award for her vibrant performance.
Beanie Feldstein
In August of 2021, the Broadway show “Funny Girl” announced its revival was in the works. It premiered in 2022 with Beanie Feldstein as Fanny Brice. Feldstein opened the revival opposite Jane Lynch, Ramin Karimloo, and Jared Grimes.
Beanie Feldstein ended her run as Fanny Brice on July 31. Julie Benko took the role over through September 4.
Julie Benko
Julie Benko was a standby for Beanie Feldstein until she took centerstage in the title role. Benko performed as the lead for several weeks before Lea Michele arrived.
This was the longest consecutive stretch Julie Benko was able to play Fanny Brice. Benko created her version of Fanny Brice through September 4, 2022, and the audiences loved it.
Lea Michele
Next came “Glee” and “Spring Awakening” belter Lea Michele. She breathed new life into the character of Fanny Brice, receiving high praise and standing ovations each night. Michele told The New York Times about taking the stage in that role, “That was my dream come true.”
In September 2023 and after a year in the role of Fanny Brice, Michele took her final bow with the rest of the “Funny Girl” company during the production’s final performance. Michele transformed Fanny Brice, persevering despite pressure, and even bolstering ticket sales. The Broadway revival played 599 performances and 30 previews.
Katerina McCrimmon
Finally, as the current rising star playing Fanny Brice, we present Katerina McCrimmon!
After finishing “Funny Girl” on Broadway, the company set off on the current 30-city tour with McCrimmon leading the company.
While this may be McCrimmon’s first major starring role, she embodies Fanny Brice as if she was born to do so!
Here is a sneak peak of the iconic song, “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” which you will hear if you see Funny Girl live in Des Moines.