Broadway's Sensational Revival of "Funny Girl" Reaches Spectacular Heights - AmNews Curtain Raiser

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Sunday, August 13, 2023

Broadway's Sensational Revival of "Funny Girl" Reaches Spectacular Heights

 

“LEA MICHELE’S PERFORMANCE IN ‘FUNNY GIRL’ IS ONE OF THE TOP FIVE MUSICAL THEATER PERFORMANCES I’VE SEEN IN MY LIFETIME.” 

– Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times 

 

“LEA MICHELE DOESN’T JUST BRING DOWN THE HOUSE. SHE BRINGS DOWN THE WHOLE DARN BLOCK!”

– Peter Marks, The Washington Post

 

“LEA MICHELE KNOCKS THIS ROLE OUT OF THE PARK! THE CEILING OF THE THEATRE IS LIKELY STILL FLOATING SOMEWHERE IN THE STRATOSPHERE.”

– Kevin Fallin, The Daily Beast

 

"LEA MICHELE SECURES HER PLACE IN BROADWAY HISTORY IN THE PERFORMANCE OF A LIFETIME."

Follow FUNNY GIRL on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @FunnyGirlBway. www.FunnyGirlOnBroadway.com



Producers Sonia Friedman, Scott Landis, and David Babani proudly announce a groundbreaking achievement for the first-ever Broadway revival of "Funny Girl." Having premiered at the illustrious August Wilson Theatre (245 West 52nd Street) in April 2022, this extraordinary revival has now recouped its remarkable $16.5 million capitalization. With a stellar cast led by Emmy Award nominee Lea Michele, Tony and Olivier Award nominee Ramin Karimloo, the multi-talented 2022 Tony & Drama Desk Award nominee and Chita Rivera Award winner Jared Grimes, and the esteemed four-time Tony Award nominee Tovah Feldshuh, "Funny Girl" has triumphantly captured hearts and headlines during its critically acclaimed, record-breaking run.


As the final curtain prepares to descend on Sunday, September 3, 2023, after an astonishing 599 performances and 30 previews on the grand Broadway stage, "Funny Girl" has undeniably etched its legacy in the annals of theater history. Prime seats for the electrifying final weeks of performances are now available for purchase at SeatGeek, offering theater enthusiasts the opportunity to witness this sensational revival before it takes its final bow.


The revival's impact has resonated beyond its captivating performances, notably setting new box office records at the iconic August Wilson Theatre. For the week ending January 8, 2023, "Funny Girl" achieved an unprecedented gross of $2,062,739.00, marking a record high for an eight-performance week. This impressive milestone followed previous achievements, with a gross of $2,005,696.00 for the week ending December 28, 2022, and a groundbreaking gross of $2,405,901.00 for the nine-performance week ending January 1, 2023. Prior to this triumph, the house record at the August Wilson Theatre was held by "Mean Girls," with a gross of $1,994,386.00, set in 2018.


At the heart of "Funny Girl" is an exceptional ensemble cast, led by the unparalleled Lea Michele as Fanny Brice, Ramin Karimloo as Nick Arnstein, Jared Grimes as Eddie Ryan, and Tovah Feldshuh as Mrs. Rosie Brice. The production showcases an array of remarkable talents, including Ephie Aardema as Emma/Mrs. Nadler, Debra Cardona as Mrs. Meeker, Martin Moran as Tom Keeney, Pablo Montalban as Florenz Ziegfeld, and Anne L. Nathan as Mrs. Strakosh. The acting company further includes a roster of extraordinary performers, all contributing to the magic on stage.


Directed by Tony Award winner Michael Mayer, this brand-new interpretation of "Funny Girl" pays homage to the beloved original while infusing it with contemporary energy. The classic score by Tony, Grammy, and Academy Award winner Jule Styne, coupled with lyrics by Tony Award nominee and Grammy Award winner Bob Merrill, creates an unparalleled musical experience.


Set against the backdrop of a bittersweet comedy, "Funny Girl" narrates the inspiring journey of Fanny Brice, a determined girl from the Lower East Side with dreams of gracing the stage. Despite skepticism from others, she defies all odds, evolving into one of the most cherished performers in history, outshining even the brightest lights of Broadway. The production boasts iconic songs including "Don’t Rain On My Parade," "I’m the Greatest Star," and "People," ensuring an unforgettable theatrical experience.


For those eager to witness this monumental revival before its final curtain call, a limited number of tickets for each performance are available at the affordable rate of $47.50. Digital lotteries commence every Monday at 10AM ET and conclude the day prior to the performance at 10:30 AM ET. Winners receive notifications around 11 AM ET on the preceding day via email and SMS, with a window to claim and purchase tickets. Entrants must be 18 years or older, and tickets are non-transferable with all sales being final.


Standing room tickets, on a first-come, first-served basis, are also available at the box office for sold-out performances.


Sonia Friedman, Scott Landis, and David Babani, in collaboration with Gemini Theatrical, Accidental Jacket, and Sony Masterworks Broadway, have further enriched the "Funny Girl" experience. The release of the "Funny Girl – New Broadway Cast Recording" is now accessible across music streaming platforms. Produced by David Caddick and David Lai, the album showcases the timeless score by Jule Styne (music) and Bob Merrill (lyrics), offering an immersive musical journey.


As "Funny Girl" captures hearts and imaginations, it is fittingly produced by an array of distinguished names, including Sonia Friedman Productions, Scott Landis, David Babani, Roy Furman, Adam Blanshay Productions, and more. These visionaries collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of Broadway excellence.


For further updates and a glimpse behind the scenes, follow "Funny Girl" on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @FunnyGirlBway, and explore more at FunnyGirlOnBroadway.com





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