the mommy avenger

Attending Funny Girl at the Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City last night was like stepping into a nostalgic yet vibrant world of Broadway glamour. Running from October 8-13, 2024, this production delivers everything you could hope for from a revival of this classic—sharp comedic timing, stellar vocals, and an emotional depth that hits home. Two performances, in particular, stood out to me: Hannah Shankman as the unforgettable Fanny Brice and the legendary Melissa Manchester as her mother, Mrs. Brice.

As Fanny Brice, Hannah Shankman dazzled from start to finish. Shankman brings a fiery energy to the role that captures Fanny’s infectious ambition and quirky charm, while also exposing her vulnerabilities. Her rendition of “Don’t Rain on My Parade” was a showstopper—bold, brassy, and sung with the kind of conviction that makes you believe in every lyric. What I found most captivating was Shankman’s ability to layer in the more tender moments, particularly in numbers like “People,” where she allows Fanny’s longing for love and acceptance to shine through.

The chemistry between Shankman and her co-stars made Fanny’s journey feel even more dynamic. Her comedic timing in scenes with the ensemble, as well as her earnest moments of vulnerability, demonstrated that she wasn’t just a caricature of the iconic Barbra Streisand role; she made Fanny her own. Shankman’s portrayal shows that Fanny is both a force of nature and a deeply human character.

But what truly took me by surprise was Melissa Manchester’s performance as Mrs. Brice. Having grown up listening to Manchester’s music, particularly her hit “You Should Hear How She Talks About You”, seeing her command the stage in a musical role was a delightful revelation. Manchester embodied Mrs. Brice with a warmth and understated strength that grounded the show in reality. As Fanny’s supportive yet no-nonsense mother, she brought a balance to the narrative, offering moments of levity and wisdom.

What made her performance so special was how naturally she seemed to fit into the role. Manchester’s musical background was evident in the way she delivered her lines with the rhythm and confidence of a seasoned performer. Her voice, though not showcased in a leading song, was just as powerful in dialogue. She was able to convey a mother’s love and concern with such subtlety that it felt like a privilege to witness this side of her talent.

The production itself was an exuberant celebration of theater. Directed by Michael Mayer, this revival stayed true to its Broadway roots while feeling fresh and relevant. The choreography was dynamic and the set design stunning, transporting the audience to Fanny’s world of vaudeville glamour. The music by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, with its blend of show tunes and emotional ballads, had the audience humming along with every number.

Funny Girl at the Eccles Theater was honestly so good. If you love a good musical that can make you laugh, cry, and leave you with a smile on your face, this is the show to see. If you haven’t already grabbed your tickets, don’t miss this opportunity. Funny Girl runs through October 13, and trust me, you’ll want to experience the magic these two incredible women bring to the stage.

*^{we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own}*