★★★★★
I will start simply. You must see this production. It is truly exceptional in every way. In the words of Fanny Brice, she is “the greatest star,” and this production shines with that star quality.
Funny Girl is forever linked to the icon that is Barbra Streisand. Featuring some of musical theatre’s most beloved songs, Don’t Rain On My Parade and People. It is no small feat to stage, yet the G & S Society of South Australia have once again delivered.
The main attraction revolves around the bold artistic decision to cast three women in the lead role. Questions naturally arise. We are curious. But this is not the first production to do so.
Director Amanda Rowe shares that she was inspired by a production by Mitchell Butel, which featured 12 performers sharing the role of Fanny. We are reminded that art is an exploration of humanity. What better way to experience our protagonist than through multiple lenses?
From the moment the curtain rises, we see the symmetry of Rowe’s masterful direction. The bond between the actresses is palpable, as are the intricacies they have developed to unify their individual performances.
Each nurtures a sensitivity for their chapter of Fanny Brice’s story. While maintaining their unique vocal tone, accent and energy, there is an electricity when their voices blend in unison. They appear mysteriously as the inner thoughts and memories of Brice throughout her life.
An audible gasp of joy rippled through the audience as we gazed upon the beautiful set design by David Lampard. The band, passionately conducted by Dylan Rufus, sits on stage in full big-band glory, framed by a wall of draped satin curtain.
A visual highlight is the marquee border of lights framing the vaudeville stage within the stage. Michael Bentley’s lighting design creates the atmosphere through the gentle smoke machine mist. I enjoyed the simplicity of flooding the curtains with coloured washes.
Set pieces are seamlessly moved throughout with choreography and acting flair from the strong ensemble cast. These transitions are executed with creativity and polish.
The female ensemble has many opportunities to display their dance skills under the expert choreography of Kerry-Lynne Hauber. The tap number in matching satin green army suits is a standout moment.
Costumes managed and made by Helen Snoswell and Rosie Ferguson capture the elegance and fun of the early 1900s. Fur lapels, bloomers and feathered follies headdresses are among the delightful features.
Olivia Sutton begins our journey as a bright-eyed, optimistic Fanny, bursting with youthful energy. Her comic timing and strong belt soar in I’m The Greatest Star. Her stage presence is undeniable. My only disappointment was how soon she was whisked away mid-number. The audience felt cheated that we didn’t have her for longer.
Sarah Hamilton then dances into Fanny’s shoes as the talented up-and-coming starlet. She seems born to play this role, balancing comedy, sincerity and powerhouse vocals through her showstopping numbers. No one performs the chicken dance quite like Sarah Hamilton! On a more solemn note, People is performed with nuanced perfection.
Her romantic counterpart, Daniel Hamilton, matches her strength, allowing audiences to bask in their authentic chemistry. He convincingly takes on the role of charming, affluent businessman and troubled gambler, Nick Arnstein. We admire his attractive, confident air and jump as his temper turns.
Finally, Sophie Stokes brings our story to a close. She commands the stage with confidence as the maturing Mrs Arnstein. Her continuation of the established role is effortless as she maintains the humour while carrying the weight of life experience.
The culmination of the love story was a deeply moving exchange between Stokes and Hamilton. Her rendition of The Music That Makes Me Dance in her final moments is breathtaking.
Thomas Sheldon as Eddie Ryan offers a loveable sidekick to Fanny Brice. He’s a triple threat, delivering acting, singing and dance in equal measure. His tap solo during a scene change is particularly enjoyable.
As Fanny grows, we see her loyal friend journey alongside her. He does not age in the same way, which left me with the quiet sense that she still sees him as the “kid” she once knew.
From the moment she opens her mouth, Carolyn Adams demonstrates that she possesses the power to steal the show as Mrs Brice. The role exudes heart and personality in bucket loads, allowing for hilarious musical moments with Sheldon and Rayner.
Wendy Rayner and David Kilsby provide strong supporting performances, consistently landing each comedic moment with precision. Notably, Danii Zappia shares stunning classical vocals as the Ziegfeld tenor.
The G & S Society of South Australia has achieved an impressive standard of excellence with Funny Girl. The Arts Theatre stage overflowed with love and talent. I left with a full heart, in awe of the brilliance that I had experienced. It was so good, I think I will see it again.
Funny Girl is presented by The G & S Society of South Australia and runs to 6 June. Arts Theatre, 53 Angas Street Adelaide SA 5000.
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1500638
Website: https://www.gandssa.com.au/funny-girl
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/gandssa/
Hero image photo credit: Daniel Salmond
