See a classical musical comedy starring (after some off-stage drama) Glee’s Lea Michele as the indomitable Fanny Brice, an early 1900s girl from the Lower East Side who dreams of being a Ziegfeld star. Features iconic songs like “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People” and an excellent supporting cast with Ramin Karimloo, Tovah Feldshuh and tap sensation Jared Grimes.

Even with updates, the 1964 plot is dated, weak and episodic. Overall the show is dependent on the talent of the lead (originally Barbara Streisand); early reports indicate that Lea Michele is pulling it off. Long-time understudy Julie Benko takes over Thursday every Thursday night; rumor is she is hilarious – and tickets are easier to get.

⏱ 2 hours 40 minutes with one 15-minute intermission

❤️ A seduction scene with lots of innuendo, and vulgar references to sex with chorus girls, but nothing more than kissing is shown.
💥 The comedy is bittersweet; with gambling debts and marital woes.

🎟 Enter the digital lottery for $47.50 tickets before 10:30 am the day of performances
🎟  Limited $42 rush tickets available when the box office opens (10 am Monday-Saturday, 12 pm Sunday); come line up early or on a weekday (especially Thursday) for better chances.

📖 Read about another LES Jewish girl who dreams of the stage in that era in American Girl Doll’s Rebecca: The Sound of Applause.