As of September 3, 2023, the Broadway scene witnesses the curtain fall on two renowned shows. The August Wilson Theatre watches as *Funny Girl* wraps up with its 130th preview and 599th regular performance. Simultaneously, *Once Upon a One More Time* ends its spectacle at the Marquis Theatre after 42 previews and 81 full-scale shows.
Directed by the acclaimed Tony Award winner, Michael Mayer, the latest rendition of *Funny Girl* sparkles with the timeless compositions of award-winning duo, Jule Styne and Bob Merrill. While the original storyline from Isobel Lennart stands strong, a fresh twist has been added by the talented Harvey Fierstein.
Currently, the stage is graced by the performances of Emmy nominee Lea Michele, Olivier and Tony nominee Ramin Karimloo, Jared Grimes (recognized by Tony, Drama Desk, and Chita Rivera Awards in 2022), and the ever-talented Tovah Feldshuh. Past casts also boasted talents like Beanie Feldstein and Jane Lynch.
This poignant comedy chronicles the tale of Fanny Brice – an unstoppable spirit from the Lower East Side who became Broadway’s darling against all odds. This show carries legendary numbers such as “Don’t Rain On My Parade” and “People”. This revival holds the distinction of being *Funny Girl’s* first Broadway return in nearly six decades.
In the week leading to August 27, the show set a new benchmark by grossing over $2.1 million at the August Wilson Theatre, surpassing its previous record from January 8. The play had a grand recoup of its $16.5 million capitalization within a few months after its April 2022 premiere.
For fans in North America, the 2023-24 tour kicks off on September 9 at the Providence Performing Arts Center, Rhode Island. Subsequent stops include major cities like Los Angeles and Washington D.C.
On the other side, *Once Upon a One More Time*, crafted by the masterminds Keone & Mari Madrid, presents a refreshing musical comedy. This Britney Spears-endorsed spectacle intertwines her hit tracks to spin a revamped fairytale, ensuring “happily ever after” gets a modern-day twist.
The inaugural Broadway lineup featured Briga Heelan, Justin Guarini, and Aisha Jackson in key roles, echoing their performances from the show’s debut at the Shakespeare Theatre Company, D.C.
Fans can look forward to national tours and several international renditions, with details to be shared soon.
As the final curtains fall on these esteemed Broadway productions, the indelible mark they’ve left on audiences worldwide remains everlasting. Both *Funny Girl* and *Once Upon a One More Time* encapsulate the essence of theatre – passion, innovation, and timeless storytelling. While their Broadway chapters may conclude, the anticipation of their national and international ventures suggests the best is yet to come.
