Lea Michele on sick leave from Funny Girl
Saadiqah, August 31st, 2023Julie Benko will be performing in her place until further notice
Glee star and leading lady Lea Michele has had to step down from her role since August 29th. As the final weeks of the Broadway show approach, there's no word on whether she will return to action before the final performance on September 3rd. In her absence, Julie Benko will be performing the role of Fanny Brice.
What is the story of Funny Girl?
Funny Girl is the semi-biographical tale of Fanny Brice, a legendary vaudeville entertainer who rose to fame in 1920s and 30s America. Determined to become a big star, she headed into showbiz despite warnings from her mother and friends that she wasn't a 'typical beauty.'
Undeterred, she went on to become a film and stage actress, model, radio star and beloved comedienne filled with gusto and exuberance! But her troubled private life also hit the spotlight - her stormy relationship with the sophisticated Nicky Arnstein has many ups and downs, not least his gambling problem.
With a nostalgic and clever book from Isobel Lennart and music and lyrics from Jule Styne and Bob Merill, including hits such as 'Don't Rain on My Parade' and 'People', Funny Girl is the story of Fanny's rise to fame and her passionate relationship with Nicky and how the outcome of his terrible business decisions led her to take a minute and reflect on what's important in life.
