Sher Confirms Lea Michele Was in Talks for FUNNY GIRL; Unlikely Due to GLEE Schedule
By: Jessica Lewis Jun. 10, 2011
In the wake of the news of an online search for the next "Funny Girl" Fanny Brice in the upcoming revival of the show, The New York Times reveals today that director Bartlett Sher was in talks with GLEE diva Lea Michele for the role, though her participation is unlikely due to her GLEE commitments next season when Funny Girl begins production.
According to the Times, Sher "did say that he had talks with the "Glee" star Lea Michele ("Spring Awakening") about the role, but that his understanding was that she was committed to the television series during the 2011-12 theater season."
Sher did not reveal other names on his list specifically. For the full New York Times article, click here.
The all-new production of "Funny Girl" opens February 1, 2012, at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles. Previews begin January 15 and the production continues through February 26, 2012.
"Funny Girl" has music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Bob Merrill, book by Isobel Lennart, and direction by Tony Award®-winner Sher, who has reassembled the acclaimed creative team behind his ravishing production of "South Pacific" (the winner of seven Tony Awards and presented at the Ahmanson last summer).
From the streets of New York's Lower East Side to the bright lights of Broadway, "Funny Girl" is the rags-to-riches, road-to-stardom story of legendary entertainer Fanny Brice - a pioneering female entertainer as well known for her oversized personality as she was for her unmatched talent.
A love story packed with unforgettable songs ("Don't Rain on My Parade," "I'm the Greatest Star," "I Am Woman, You Are Man" and the international hit "People"), irresistible backstage drama and a heartbreaking romance, this classic musical takes theatregoers back to the Golden Age of Ziegfeld and the height of burlesque. Part show-biz spectacular, part timeless love story, "Funny Girl" is pure Broadway legend.
Tickets for "Funny Girl" are only available by subscription at this time. For information and to charge season tickets by phone, call the Exclusive Season Ticket Hotline at (213) 972-4444. To purchase subscriptions online, visit www.CenterTheatreGroup.org.
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