From someone who saw both Beanie and Lea, Lea completely blows Beanie out of the water. I knew she could sing but was pliantly surprised at how well she acted. I've also never been to a show (let alone a Tuesday night) where there are 6 standing ovations during the show. Financial genius by producers

@kgal1298

Жыл бұрын

I bet they’re thrilled she got ticket sales up, but it was always funny to me people thought she’d fail and I think that’s people who literally never saw her so any of the Spring Awakening performances.

@ToySoldiers

Жыл бұрын

@@kgal1298 Confirmation bias mostly. People wanted to bad to think she was a terrible singer and actress.

@Leamichellefan2244

Жыл бұрын

I can even tell the vast vast difference between lea and feldstine in the youtube clips, its like night and day.

@Leamichellefan2244

Жыл бұрын

@@ToySoldiers thank heaven that didn’t wok all tho I’m sad to say that there are still people trying as hard as they can to push that rubbish.

@balesjo

Жыл бұрын

@@ToySoldiers Personally, I admit my opinion of her had been colored by her character in Glee who came across as a Diva before she was a star. That was my mistake. Since she was named as Beanie's replacement, I've gone back and watched some of her concert performances and later the videos from Funny Girl. Both concert and Broadway stages, she looks like she really enjoys what she does. She appears to have great rapport with other actors and with the public. As Fanny, she excels. Her voice soars, she's funny, she conveys a wide range of emotions which are incredible to watch, particularly in the finale. Funny Girl is one of my favorite musicals and I now find myself rooting for her success.

I was stunned at how much I enjoyed her. The comedic moments were sweet and sincere, silly and got hysterical laughter. She was playing with the conductor and ad libbing so naturally, it was honestly shocking! I also noted her engagement with the ensemble- she connected clearly with them all. She was in excellent voice (saw her the 7th of Sept). Enjoyed seeing more poc representation from the ensemble and really was taken by her whole presence. It was shockingly good. Truly shocking (in the best way). The night I went she got 4 standing o’s through the show. Two for DROMP. Believed every word she said and performed. I hope to everything that she’s evolved as a human. I assume such a honest and vulnerable performance had to be because of her personal growth and openness. Her energy seemed to completely take over the theatre and stage. This is not a reflection of how I feel about her personally- I don’t know her and I honor that she’s had big issues with performers and people. Let’s hope these things have been addressed and worked through.

@thomasmurphy83

Жыл бұрын

I keep using shocking, but that’s how it all felt. 😂

@thomasmurphy83

Жыл бұрын

@@patrickTHEceliac such is the beast of live theatre! One night to the next can really be something different (I used to perform for 20 years- audience response is never the same).

@ToySoldiers

Жыл бұрын

@@patrickTHEceliac LOL, you're the only person I've heard with that opinion. Then again, who even knows if you actually went or you just dislike her to the point of leaving comments like these?

@joegotham27

Жыл бұрын

Same, I was unprepared for what an amazing performance it was all around, absolutely brilliant

@thomasmurphy83

Жыл бұрын

@@joegotham27 glad you enjoyed!

I saw Beanie, Julie Benko and now Lea Michele and I can tell you she is fantastic. I’ve never watched Glee, I wasn’t familiar with Lea before everything that happened to Funny Girl. I wasn’t expecting to like her. But I do. Not only her singing is brilliant but her acting is spot on. She also has amazing chemistry with Ramin and their duets are the most beautiful thing you will ever hear. And I don’t think the cast resents her at all, they have their jobs and the show is finally getting what it deserves. By the way, no video/bootleg makes justice to seeing/hearing her live.

@Filayevna

Жыл бұрын

I could not agree with this comment more if I had written it myself! I only had the pleasure of seeing one Fanny Brice, though I heard from several friends that Julie was excellent. I'm sure she was, after all, she's also a Spring Awakening alum. I saw Lea's 8PM show on Saturday, October 8th, and I can say without any hyperbole that she was magnificent! She was born for the stage and meant to play this role. I don't say that just because she has phenomenal technique and can belt with the very best of them. I adored her in the vulnerable moments, in her quiet introspection, and yes, even in her campy comedy bits! She isn't Barbra. She doesn't try to be Barbra. She is Lea. I was seated next to a long time goer and lover of the theater who told me she actually had seen the original production with Babs and that she was very excited to witness for herself if the young lady who would soon take the stage, and I do mean "take the stage" would be this generation's Fanny. She was impressed with "Who are you now?" at the top of the show, but by intermission, she was a fully-fledged, card-carrying convert and member of the Lea Fanclub. Also in the audience that evening, Lea's best friend and probably her number one fan, The Jonathan Groff! It was a fabulous production and show all around! The cast were all excellent and I don't see the acting as over done so much as I see it in the style of a musical from the 20's would have been at the time of the famous Ziegfeld Follies and reviews. Tovah Feldshuh was exactly what you would imagine Fanny's Mama, a delightfully witty saloon owner would be. Jared Grimes is a star! Plain and simple. Ramin Karimloo, I mean, you can't conceive of a more debonair, charming, velvety voiced Nicky Arnstein, and yes, their chemistry is explosive. Even my husband, who is not a big musical theater fan (he liked Hamilton, Into the Woods, and Book of Mormon, but little else) truly enjoyed it and felt along with me that we were seeing an incredible star turn and if felt significant. Just for reference, I am not a Gleek. I am a Guilty One. If you can make it to NY and get tickets, go! It's worth every penny!

The theme of this week is "Mickey Jo's most popular video topics come back with a vengeance".

@kallen868

Жыл бұрын

😂 I just watched Bad Cinderella!

So I also was lucky enough to see both Lea and Bernie in this role. I am also not really a Glee fan either so no particular bias there. But when Jamie Lee Curtis said she is a REVELATION in this role - she isnt' lying...I have seen almost every major broadway and west end performances over past 25 years. Her performance in this role is easily in top 5 of performances I have seen. The acting is phenomenal as well and the Lea version along with Tovah Feldhuh makes everybody else seem to up their game. I mean Jane Lynch is nice but a character designed to be a old Jewish yenta she isnt. Just such a difference between the 2 versions - after the Lea version I felt like I had never even seen Funny Girl before (even though had seen Bernie version a few months earlier - the difference in quality was that large)

I believe it's possible if this show had the luxury of old-school out-of-town tryouts the reviews and social media might have led to Beanie's replacement before coming to Broadway. Sorta like how this unknown named Sutton Foster stepped in for Erin Dilly in "Modern Milly" for its Broadway opening.

@christophersmith3341

Жыл бұрын

I doubt it. Look at the London edition. Michael Mayer didn't want a booming Streisand voice, and he clearly didn't want Michele (whom he knew and could easily have contacted/recruited). He had an entirely different vision. I wonder how much input he had into the recasting, or if the producers simply put their foot down and said, "We tried it your way long enough. We want a profit. We're doing this."

@chocolatesouljah

Жыл бұрын

@@christophersmith3341 yes of course anything is possible. But what I suggest is that sometimes that confidence such as the director’s is reshaped by audience reaction and reviews and out-of-town trial might’ve provided. For example, I saw the out-of-town San Francisco tryout of wicked. Fiero‘s number had become the gossip of all this local theater kids. It was called which “way is the party.” By the time I got to New York it was replaced with a much better dancing through life. There were also a couple of reprises of the “wizards and I“ disappeared by New York opening. Yes I hear what you’re saying about the Director and it makes sense and everything I’m suggesting is all fantasy, but for years it’s been known that the out of town tryouts which had become so unaffordable for so many shows can be a missing link to making that show work better. As I suggested with Sutton Foster and Millie.

@christophersmith3341

Жыл бұрын

@@chocolatesouljah Part of what makes me think this is that the show was, in many ways, simply a London transfer (not that revisions never happen when shows cross the pond!). But I do agree that a more traditional out-of-town tryout might have changed some things, and who knows, maybe in fact would have changed the casting of the lead.

@eesparza92

Жыл бұрын

@@christophersmith3341 but even if they didn’t want a big booming Barbra voice, they could have still gotten a better singer. I’ve heard recording of beanie singing the music that makes me dance and its very tamped down, but she still sounds like a mediocre high school performer. There’s definitely a middle ground between not Barbara and not ready for Broadway

@christophersmith3341

Жыл бұрын

@@eesparza92 Agreed, but, again, considering the London production, I think Mayer was clearly taking the appraach that a revival should not be about the voice but about the comedy. One can argue the disastrousness of this choice, of course. Funny Girl was never really funny, and is literally ALL about the score, which needs a strong voice to do it justice. But Mayer seems to have wanted something very specific, and I don't get any sense he was ever disappointed with what Beanie gave him. I think the producers were disappointed (to put it mildly) with the reviews and in panic mode over horrible word-of-mouth, but that's a different thing.

I saw Lea a few weeks ago and I got the impression (mostly from all the shrieks of pleasure when she so much as breathed) that a lot of the audience were Glee fans there to see her live her dream. I think ppl would’ve given her ovations even if the performance wasn’t good, simply bc of how meta the whole Lea, Rachel, Fanny situation has become. With that said, I loved the show and I loved her as Fanny. Music is always the most important to me for shows, so it was nice going in with the confidence that Barbara’s songs would be done justice. I can’t say that I had that same confidence when I saw Beanie.

@12harrypotterfan34

Жыл бұрын

I saw Lea a couple of weekends ago and I got the same impression. The audience was very young compared to other Broadway shows I’ve been to, and it seemed like a lot of people were there to see Lea versus the show itself. I also thought Lea was terrific, and I enjoyed the show overall a lot. (I didn’t agree at all with the NYTimes review that ripped the show apart.) Lea did a great job making the role her own and capturing the emotional depth. I thought she gave a much stronger performance than when she played the role on Glee and essentially just imitated Streisand.

@haris8853

Жыл бұрын

@@12harrypotterfan34 That was sort of the point in hiring Lea. They could have hired anyone else, there's rumours of them considering Lady Gaga, but they knew Lea would save the production and that people will definitely buy tickets just to see Lea live

@veronicacpage922

Жыл бұрын

@@haris8853 Gaga would kill it. She’s brilliant from the core IMO and even without direction I’m SURE would just naturally come up with an effortless and funny performance. And now is reeeeeaally like to see LG’s take on Cornet Man!! Oh and this is totally moot but I’d hope if Gaga does get to take on the role that she uses her real name, Stefani Germanotta. There’s a quote by LG/SG I just read that fits her so well “I’m great under pressure,” she says. “I’m a warrior. I’m Rocky, round 12.” And I feel Fanny Brice, the real woman and not the caricature of her would agree with that quote too. She sings how she is “better on stage than at intermission” and I feel most true actors/performers/vocalists/artists know and feel this in their core.

That opening had me rolling 🤣

I don't get to see many shows anymore, but I love theatre and I'm so glad I can live vicariously through you! Thanks for all you do. Love your content

I’ve seen the show with both, and Lea does an amazing job, transforming the show 100%… with Bennie I was always anxious thinking she was going to miss one of the big notes… but with Lea that feeling goes away and you can actually sit and relax. You can also notice that the cast doesn’t have to hold back to support Bennie, they actually seem to also let go, and give their very best. The star power from Lea elevates the whole production by matching the vocal talent of her co-stars. I knew she was going to be able to sing the part, but I wasn’t sure if she was going to be able to bring the comedy into it… but she delivers the the jokes successful.

@jeffreywillstewart

Жыл бұрын

I suspect that her brilliance and determination raised the status quo on Glee as well. Look at how Santana and Britney evolved to be strong performers.

Saw Lea Michele after she returned from covid and loved it! She was amazing! The audience applauded so much that it was sometimes hard to hear the best parts of the song.

I have an unpopular opinion on bootlegs - I get it's wrong and I don't necessarily condone it. HOWEVER - theatre, especially Broadway, is extremely inaccessible for the masses because of the price of tickets. If broadway shows would lower their prices so that more people could see their shows, perhaps less people would bootleg lol

@callalily3994

Жыл бұрын

I'd assume that the vast majority of people watching bootlegs don't live near NYC -- ticket prices wouldn't have much effect on whether or not they could see the show.

@Makeji

Жыл бұрын

It would cost me $1500 to travel to NYC and stay for 2 nights - that doesn't include tickets. I'm a senior citizen on a fixed income, so I love the boots. So long as the show is making money and everyone is getting paid, I'm fine with boots. What I don't like to see are boots of concerts where the artists depend on the fees to earn a living.

@jlasf

Жыл бұрын

Somehow there are bootlegs for old shows, as well. Bits of the original "Funny Girl" with Streisand, "Mama" with Angela Lansbury, and many others. Just dig through KZread.

@Makeji

Жыл бұрын

@@jlasf KZread really is a treasure trove, isn't it? I suppose a lot of it has to do with how concerned the producers are about the loss of revenue. I've seen some of the boots from the original FG. I think what happened with Julie Benko's audio boots was they were still trying to promote Beanie and Julie made her look bad. I saw one video boot of Julie here - the finale DROMP. This is likely considered good promo because Julie is doing the Thursday show.

@AK-ms2qc

Жыл бұрын

i dont think this is unpopular at all! inaccessibility in theatre is a GIGANTIC issue and bootlegs totally neutralize that. i think so many people view theatre as this really transformative art form and agent of change but there's no way for it to truly be those things if the demographic who is able to interact with it is so limited (and so privileged, usually)

I had a few of the (very many) recordings of Lea's opening week come across my FYP. She sounds incredible, but not perfect... which is exactly what I was hoping for. It seems like she's able to balance singing through emotional moments very well. Coming in as a praised replacement (and not having Tonys controversy follow her around forever) was probably the best case scenario for her in this situation.

@goatpie882

Жыл бұрын

Would you please share a recording? :)

@chocolatesouljah

Жыл бұрын

@@goatpie882 I am not sure if I should chime in but here's a link to the finale with Lea Michele. The original ending of the show, not "My Man" which was added for the film version. It's a reprise of "Don't Rain on My Parade." kzread.info/dash/bejne/e5qiza56ZdyXqLA.html

@ROBYNMARKOW

Жыл бұрын

There's no such thing as a "Perfect" voice. ( Unless it's auto-tuned)

I saw the show on Oct. 5. She was incredible. Amazing vocals, strong acting, good comedy skills. I laughed, got goosebumps, and even teared up a couple of times. She got at least three standing ovations, which is very rare for a broadway show, having attended around 10 in the last year.

Thank you very much Micky for taking your time to review Lea's Funny girl. I always look forward to your review. It gives me a sense of being able to watch shows where I am unable to do so. Cheerios!

I was thinking just this morning, “I hope Mickey Jo makes a video talking about Lea Michelle’s reception in Funny Girl.” You read my mind! 🤗👏🏻💕

Literally watched through your Funny Girl playlist today haha, great timing and great to see your thoughts.

I’m just back from seeing Lea tonight and she was spectacular. I saw Beanie back May and I didn’t think she did that bad but I remember thinking the whole play was so so long, but coming out of tonight’s performance I could’ve easily sat through a third act, it was that enjoyable, and that was all down to Lea. She had the comedy, the sincerity, and the musicality down to a tea. I agree with you that for her being the replacement was probably the best option for her career wise, and we all know that she can sing this really well but I wasn’t sure she’d be able to bring the comedy of Fanny Brice, but she really did. Bitch really brought it all, and I’m here for it, difficult as she may be.

Got to see this show 2 weeks ago. As you say, it has always been a star vehicle and I believe Lea filled those shoes admirably with not only her amazing vocal chops, but great comedic timing and more than passable dancing. The supporting cast deserves props too, especially with the addition of the brilliant Tovah Feldshuh. Yes, the sets are a bit clunky and unappealing, but that's not really why we are here. As a middle-aged male GLEEK, I was beyond thrilled. And please don't mess with The Music That Makes Me Dance. It's one of the greatest torch songs ever.

Great video! Very illuminating. Thanks!

I know I’ve said this before, but I enjoy your reviews and analysis so much, Mickey. It reignites my interest and love for theater when I hear your passion discussing it.

@MickeyJoTheatre

Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, that's lovely to hear!

This video came at such a perfect time tonight. I really enjoyed it and listening to your comments. I hope you'll have a nice evening 🖤

She's normally had many standing ovations in EVERY SHOW. She received 6 standing ovations on her 1st day of playing Funny Girl! :)

i saw lea’s opening night (and posted one of the mega-viral b00tlegs on tik tok🤭), she was genuinely incredible, it was like being at a rock concert i’ve never experienced energy like that in my life

I saw her yesterday on Broadway and she was amazing! Unparalleled voice

They always said Babs was kind of a diva behind the scenes, too.

okay I saw Funny Girl twice. once in late August with Julie Benko and then again just a week ago after Lea returned from her Covid absence. (I totally caved and bought tickets the second time around because I wanted to experience her performance for this legendary role and be able to tell people I saw Lea as Fanny Brice lmao) I'm a very uhhhh casual person so it would take a lot for me to hate a broadway show so my word is just my word, I would never be able to be a critic because I can be easily pleased but when it comes to my favorite musicals, I'm able to pinpoint details I'm happy with or wish could've been different, not necessarily better ANYWAY I'm rambling, but I saw this twice, only a month a part from each other with both Julie and Lea, so I remembered a lot of aspects from the first performance with Julie that I could compare to my performance with Lea. I definitely think Julie was a little more into the slapstick/comedy aspect of the role, because I definitely noticed more out loud laughing moments from the audience for Julie than with Lea. Granted, Lea did surprise me because, just like you, I had no idea how she would embrace a comedienne role, but she wasn't as awkward or as stiff as I was anticipating. She has a sense of humor and she was able to get a good amount of laughs. I noticed more moments and jokes received more boisterous laughter with clapping included when Julie did it, compared to Lea delivering the same exact line, which was more of a collective laugh that died down more quickly. Could've have been the differences in audiences, which were both matinee performances, but that's what I noticed. And, of course, each lady has their own way of interpreting Fanny which is the beauty of acting, so while Julie was a lot more over the top and sorta goofy with her deliveries, Lea didn't linger too long on a reaction or joke. I'm specifically thinking of the scene where Nick Arnstein first appears backstage after Fanny's first number at Keeney's--Julie reacted over the top, where she literally sank to the floor, mouth wide open, absolutely gobsmacked with how gorgeous he is and hamming up her reaction that made the audience laugh for a solid 10 seconds while Lea's Fanny only kinda fumbles a little bit and remains frozen for a couple seconds with a shocked expression, the audience only having laughed for maybe 3 to 4 seconds before the next line was said Julie is more Fanny like in that way, but it's not like Lea saps the comedy out of it so it was fine either way for me. For me, I think it's the stigma of knowing who Lea is and knowing the characters she known to play, while I went in having no prior exposure to Julie or any of her past roles. Julie was a fresh face and I was able to easily picture her as just "Fanny!" rather than Lea, who to me is "Lea Michele playing Fanny Brice" lol It's like how people say when they recognize a celebrity voicing an animated character, and they can't get invested in the story or the character because they know that it's THAT celebrity voicing them yknow? But that's just how I see things. Other people can get past stuff like that. Both ladies were fantastic and Im thrilled I had the ability to watch them both perform is such close proximity to each other that I was able to make this comparison. I feel like a loser but that's okay, who knows when Funny Girl will be back on broadway after this

@brightshining

Жыл бұрын

👏 Amazing notes, thank you

I saw Beanie on her 3rd night. I never spoke of it because I just did not like the show. The scenery was not great. The music seemed to overpower Beanie. It was not the revival I hoped for. I saw Lea last weekend. Lea is breathtaking. She is funny . She provides the power to make us all love Fanny. The show is still awkward....but Lea transcends it. I loved her.

I was giving a free ticket to go see funny girl with Lea and I wasn’t a fan or here’s or the show/movie and I have to say it was one of the best shows I’ve seen and it’s because of Lea. Her voice is angelic and her acting is amazing. I did think the set was hard to look at. A lot of space was wasted and they relied on things coming from the sky too much. I weirdly do understand what the one reviewer was talking about the cannon, that the point when the cannons went off I thought to myself this is taking a while to finish up and the scene didn’t really add anything to the show. I thought Lea did a good job acting out the young Fanny and emotional Fanny very well. Even in the funny parts I thought she was good (when she goes to nicks hotel and when she has to act silly in front of him). Over all a good show I would give it a 8.5 out of 10

My adult daughter Dr.Kuehl & I just saw Lea Michelle in Funny Girl Sat.matinee yesterday.let me1st state I’ve seen many theatrical musical productions. This was a special gift to me from my daughter as I’m now in my Stage 5 Renal Kidney failure, so making the trip from New Hampshire was challenging and exhausting w all my equipment & the cost involved. Well,l state emphatically, wholeheartedly is was well worth the journey to see Lea Michelle as Fanny Brice, she was truly phenomenal. We could not take our eyes nor ears off of Lea, she completely commanded the stage,this role! I feel guilty saying this as I was a true believer Barbra Streisand is simply the best. But both my daughter and I agree Lea was much better! Funny Girl a truly an amazing experience. Love to Lea, best wishes! 👏🥰🙋🏼

I absolutely want them to add My Man to the Broadway show

@thomasmurphy83

Жыл бұрын

Same. I wanted it, but it ran for almost 3 hours so I don’t think we could have sat for another number hehe

@kallen868

Жыл бұрын

@@thomasmurphy83 I directed Funny Girl in the 90's the last performance my Fanny did a post curtain call "My Man" a Capella. Amazing moment. Just once!😉

@haris8853

Жыл бұрын

I want them to but I agree with the video that the broadway show should stay the broadway show. But I might be biased because I absolutely love The Music That Makes Me Dance

Thank you for being fair and balanced in your presentation. I so appreciate that.

Thank you MickeyJo, I have a ticket to see the show 10/28 - now I'll have the backstory & your review. Big Hug, and let's get you to B-way soon . . . always a fan 🤩 jojo

I saw the show a week ago with Lea Michele and she is fantastic! I have never seen any glee episodes however and didn't know her past work. She clearly had matured into a great performer and has a great voice. Go see her if you can.

@marthasullivan1966

Жыл бұрын

Great review, thank you.

I saw Lea on September 30th and she was wonderful. I was only willing to pay for a standing room ticket for $42.50 but I could see them all great. She was signing playbills before the show. The front of house staff were thankful for the buzz of Lea’s first month. I thought she delivered the comedic non-singing parts well. The Glee fans roared in applause mid song multiple times for multiple songs and it was hard to hear her sing.

Your opening line :D that's the sarcasm I'm here for

Accountability? In the court of public opinion, in what form exactly should Lea be held accountable for her past bad behavior? She was called out on her bad behavior, and rightly so. She has apologized, but it seems it is not groveling enough for people. She lost her Hello Fresh sponsorship. There is no doubt in my mind that she would have been casted as Fanny Brice originally had it not been for the controversy. She has been ridiculed incessantly on social media for supposedly not being able to read. People took glee in her not being casted in Funny Girl originally and gloated all over social media. She has now saved Funny Girl from closing. You can see in her interviews that she makes a point to always acknowledge the company. I choose to believe that she has learned and has changed. Everyone deserves another chance. However, the self-righteous people online are not as forgiving.

@angelapatino9582

Жыл бұрын

Don't you think it's funny that the people who constantly call her out for past bullying/bad behavior are bullying her now? It makes no sense to me that we refuse to let people grow after a decade

@Charles-nj2ef

Жыл бұрын

@@angelapatino9582 , very true. There is so much bullying going on online. People make judgment of others based on limited information, and are willing to call them names and insult them. I am not a Gleek, but I really felt bad for Lea due to the amount of harassment she was getting online.

I did nor see Beanie Feldstein but my adult daughter and I saw Lea last night. She was phenomenal and made a somewhat average show into something quite special. Numerous standing ovations throughout the performance for her, a rare end of 1st act standing ovations, and everyone was discussing how special her performance was. Her acting was terrific and felt real as did her comedy. And at the final curtain she seemed to be very grateful to be there and received the love the audience offered her with grace. Her voice was perfect and powerful and probably one of the top two individual performances I have seen on Broadway (the other being Patti Lupone in Evita).

Lea singing My Man is one of my top Glee performances. I would love to see her perform it in the show.

@johnrobcrosthwait

Жыл бұрын

“My Man” isn’t in the original stage production, only film.

Love your commentary. You are like a modern throwback to the 40s Louella Parsons and Hedda Hopper gossip columnists.. you need a tux and large mic. Love what you do. ❤️

The cast recording was just released. Love your review of it!

I repeat: you are SO WELL SPOKEN I love listening to you talk. We disagree here on one point, but it's a through-line point so it's important: I don't think the only successful actress had to sound like or act like Streisand. I think Fanny Brice herself would've been UNABLE to sing this score. So, step one, one needs an actress who can sing this score. Were the jokes in the script written for Streisand's brand of humor, or did she help form the lines during the rehearsal process? Maybe. I don't think the Fanny Brice in Funny Girl resembles the actual Fanny Brice, other than the shared stage presence, the ability to walk into a room and light it up....the character, as written, happens to resemble Streisand or actresses like her: big presence, comedic, "ethnic", and with a high belt. I saw Beanie, and she did NOT have the comedic timing, I'm sorry, nor did she have the stage presence, nor did she have the belt. And the producers knew that when they hired her and they set her up to fail and it was cruel, IMHO. I don't care for Lea Michele as a person (and it's only from what I've heard and people change so I discount my own opinion of her). The bootlegs I've heard? SHE HAS THE COMEDIC TIMING PERFECTLY. She belts like the best of them. The audience is eating out of her hand which tells me she has the stage presence. So it is NOT about Streisand; it is about stage presence, comedic timing, and being able to sing the score. All of which Lea can do. Please let's meet for tea so we can discuss.

the thing that gets me about the 'lea cant read' jokes is...okay what if she cant? what if she is dyslexic? why are we making fun of disabilities? there are lots of people who have issues reading. its really basic bullying .

@carriew5106

Жыл бұрын

This is a point so many people over look, because "it's a joke". And it probably is about Lea. But it's not to a huge number of people. And a whole social media trend trashing someone for not being able to read will mean that the insecure kid who really can't feels worse than they did before. A bit of empathy wouldn't be hard!

@Jaxbeth

Жыл бұрын

@@carriew5106, "And a whole social media trend trashing someone for not being able to read will mean that the insecure kid who really can't feels worse than they did before" - solid point.

@erinmcneillie72

Жыл бұрын

Imagine if she was going around making fun of people because they can’t sing. Come on people this is ridiculous. How is not being able to read something to be made fun of? Wow this is a new low. Doesn’t matter if it is true or not. How do you think people that actually can’t read feel about these comments and don’t say they can’t read them anyway so it doesn’t matter. Are we going to make fun of blind people now because they can’t see the comments? Ridiculous.

@tiactus

Жыл бұрын

it stemmed from learning that lea was an absolute nightmare to work with, and her racist behaviour on the set of Glee and etc. I think this was made in good faith , but literally nobody is making fun of disabilities or dyselxia when they said Lea can't read. They're calling her uneducated, because she is. She's not a good person.

@RosieG9012

Жыл бұрын

@@tiactus saying that someone can’t read as an insult is still making fun of people with learning disabilities and dyslexia. It implies that not being able to read makes you stupid or a worse person somehow. Plus, using the insult “can’t read” to mean “uneducated” is also insulting to dyslexic/learning disabled people, so that’s a very poor defense. If people want to make fun of Lea for being racist and bad to work with, then they should make fun of her for that, not use insults that a actually just hurt dyslexic people and then say they “didn’t mean it that way.”

Is it POSSIBLE that the rumors of how AWFUL she was were taken to the nth level in some respects. There were quite a few people who were saying how nice she was on sets, bringing cookies, inviting people over for watch parties, etc. I'm not saying she wasn't a pain in the ass, but she most likely wasn't the MONSTER that people (some of the same who are jumping on her bandwagon now) made her out to be.

@karlamoralesbarreto

Жыл бұрын

I have to agree some people may have exaggerated in some things cause how is it Jamie Lee Curtis who is so kind is supporting Lea if she was how ppl say she is so I think you’re right and it was most likely exaggerated even Becca Tobin who was her co star from seasons 4-6 of glee went so I think she’s kind and sometimes they forget she lost Corey in 2013 and grief affects people differently

@tbam73

Жыл бұрын

@@karlamoralesbarreto so her comments to a Black actress was because she was in mourning? Sure.

@tbam73

Жыл бұрын

I find it interesting that because she is doing well in the show all of a sudden her costars account if her behavior towards THEM was suddenly exaggerated. Two things can be true. She can be great in a roll and still have been awful to people. Geez, people amaze me

@marthasullivan1966

Жыл бұрын

TOTALLY AGREE.Thanks for noting that. There was a lot of jealousy on the Glee set.

@Leamichellefan2244

Жыл бұрын

It’s more than possible it’s more than likely what happened and I can say that’s a really big possibility for two reasons one they didn’t start complaining until after glee stopped, which is after the money stopped coming in into they’re just jealous.

With that comment about 50000 musical theatre girls trying to replicate her performance, a long-repressed memory of teenage me recording myself singing Don't Rain on My Parade using my laptop webcam and posting it to Facebook in 2010 floated back into my conscious mind. Thank you for that moment of cringe. 🙈 I still can hardly believe that she has this role in real life. She'll be quitting and heading to California for a TV show soon. 😆 Glee was the worst but some of the arrangements they did are still so fun. 🎶

@jacquelinecallejas1390

Жыл бұрын

Remember when they did Rebecca Black's Friday as a sort of Regae thing? It was awesome.

I’ve not seen Lea or Beanie in Funny Girl unfortunately, but I did see Julie Benko and she was absolutely spectacular, I can confirm that

The producers must be in heaven. They get ticket sales way up by casting Lea and the people who hate her can get tickets on Thursday so they win either way. I keep picturing swimming in a vault full of money like Scrooge McDuck.

@jenm9099

Жыл бұрын

Lol at that mental image

To be fair, Funny Girl historically was always elevated beyond its book by the performer in the role of Fanny. It’s never been (then or now) seen as an ensemble piece. The Streisand effect (star turn, not the other Streisand Effect) is that it was always her showcase matching some fantastic songs, it was never a “great” Broadway production. 🎩

@kgal1298

Жыл бұрын

The thing is it’s not a great musical. It’s an okay story that as you said relies on its performers to elevate. Which is why Beanie was such an odd choice because you can’t just take the idea of Barbara out of your head.

Mickey Love your passion and wide ranging knowledge of theatre. You should work in dramaturgy as your observations are so thoughtful and you have such a wonderful love of the stage. Thank you MickyJo, wish I lived in NYC just so I could give you a place to crash.❤

I don’t think the ensemble of Funny Girl has any animosity toward Lea. I think the opposite is true, because I think they’re just happy that they still have jobs.

@ToySoldiers

Жыл бұрын

Could be - but those receiving the negative comments might feel resentful. Not that it's fair to her, but sometimes people can't help what they feel lol.

@accountforwastingtime

Жыл бұрын

@@ToySoldiers ya, you can be thankful to have a job and secretly hate your coworker lol

You can tell she was BORN to play this role. Glee was basically one big Funny Girl audition

I saw Beanie and will be seeing Lea Michele in early December. Will look for this video and compare here.

FYI NYC trip: My friend and I went to NYC in early February during Superbowl weekend and it was incredible. It was freezing, but hotels were less expensive, we got tickets to shows with no problem, and didn't have to wait in line for anything. We were a walk-in to Central Park's Boathouse for brunch and maybe waited five minutes! I'd look at less popular times of year to go.

flew to nyc for 12 hours just to see this show 37/10 would do it again she was fantastic

@kgal1298

Жыл бұрын

Hahaha I have less of a fly time and I’m seriously considering it 😂 but every time I go to NYC I spend so much money.

I agree with you that the show should be the show and the movie should be the movie. But she slays My Man so thoroughly that I don’t blame people for wanting to hear it.

I haven't seen her yet, but ask me in a couple hours. :) UPDATE: She was phenomenal!!! I've seen a lot of Broadway shows in my life and a lot of iconic performers (Idina Menzel, Sutton Foster, Audra McDonald) and Lea is up there with the best of the best. It's not just great singing, her acting was fantastic. I will admit that the show itself is "meh," but Lea saves it. If anyone has the chance to see it...Go! You will not regret it.

Hahhaha omg the opening is well said 😂

Could you talk about and Juliet west end closing? Love your content x

Loving the King and I “elephant in the room” 😄🐘

Love your posts - one American quibble - it’s schtick not a schtick - Oy!

Loved your definition of "The luckiest people in the world." BTW, I'd noticed the elephant in the background on another video. Really cute! Regarding Lea Michelle and 'Funny Girl'. I have to admit, her character in "Glee' had colored my perception as an actress. She was the driven student who wanted to be a Broadway actress and came across as a Diva before she was out of high school. But whether or not she was actually like that as a person, I don't know, but she's older and to me comes across much more mature. Watching the videos of her performances in "Funny Girl", I've become a fan of her as Fanny Brice. I'm sorry to say, Beanie really got a raw deal, being chosen to play Fannie when she didn't have the vocal chops for the role. She's a good actress, but she just wasn't the right one for the role of Fanny. And the reception by the public and reviewers in the early months suggests that producers had miscalculated with their changes to the musical that made Barbra Streisand a star. Enter Lea Michelle. She has the voice, she is funny, has great chemistry with Ramin Karimloo and the other actors, and has the star power to fill the seats while her voice rattles the rafters. And she is helping fill very expensive seats. I'm probably the rare gay man that admits that I like Lea Michelle as Fanny as much as I liked Barbra Streisand as Fanny. They're both actors that were meant for the role!

You are the absolute BEST reviewer and I hope you WRITE!!!!!!!! And I mean, WRITE!!!!!!!

Love the content, but most of all your visual reference 😉😍

I am going in December and can’t wait to see Lea as Fanny Brice. That voice!!! Feel the torch has been passed?

THANK YOU

Superb as ever, and very interesting to take a deep dive into the current state of things. I think you play devils advocate very well while still being clear on your personal stance. Proud to know you mate x

I have seen this production of Funny Girl now three time: once with Beanie in preview and on opening night, and Lea a few weeks ago. I was not a fan of Beanie’s performance to say the least. If anything I was crucified for my opinion of her performance(at the time). Most of these people were stating that I was “fat shaming” Beanie, which I was not. She just wasn’t right for the role of Fanny Brice. Now Lea Michelle is so right for the part and is great in it! I don’t believe that Lea Michell is a racist, but I’m sure she is a diva. Being a diva doesn’t make one a racist! I really wish that they would have kicked the set to the curb when then kicked Beanie to the curb! The costumes are not up to par in my opinion too. I know that originally they wanted to create a Funny Girl that differed from the Streisand spectacular,but that could never happen. Funny Girl will always be Streisand, no performer can change the fact that the original stage production was built on her personality and voice. They could have called the main character Fanny or Barbra, it wouldn’t made any difference. I think Jules Styne wrote 81 songs(most of which hit the cutting room floor). Barbra has stated that there were 41 endings to Funny Girl and on opening night it was fixed on number 41. To your point about the cast feeling upstaged by the great reviews Lea just received: perhaps for a day or two they will sting, but they want to be employed for as long as possible in a “hit” Broadway show. It always looks good on a resume to be in a hit and to have a paycheck.

Omg girl the opening segment is shaaaaady 😂

I have seen both Beanie and Lea. I have to say I enjoyed both but Lea is truly amazing. Lea is by far the better singer, which we know, but I was amazed by her vulnerability and choices. I was second row for both and Lea’s performance was real and raw. Only Bernadette Peters in Gypsy was a more perfect performance of a revival.

Saw FG back in June with Julie Benko and Jane Lynch . Julie was great…. Jane on the other hand was 😬. While there are shows I have plans to see before seeing Funny Girl again, I’m curious how the change of Tovah and Lea may improve the show (especially since I found Jane Lynch distractingly bad). As for the Tony’s Lea’s performance may have gotten her a nomination… but as someone who saw Joaquina Kalukango in Paradise Square back in May… Lea wouldn’t have won.

@swatchdog9094

Жыл бұрын

What was wrong with Jane?

@kallen868

Жыл бұрын

I love Jane! But she wouldn't be my first choice for Rosie Brice.

@AKMorehouse

Жыл бұрын

@@swatchdog9094 in some parts it felt like she was over acting, and when she was singing it was monotone... and just not good.

@selmajabr3514

Жыл бұрын

When did Lea get a Tony nomination?

@mshalo1822

Жыл бұрын

I didn't see Jane, but she seems so miscast as a Jewish mother. Tovah was wonderful (it's a small role) and she and Lea had great chemistry, and were believable as mother and daughter.

I would love to see your thoughts on the fact Netflix dropped the lawsuit against the creators of the Bridgerton musical

Saw the show Oct 22. Loved it. She did not disappoint. I have now witnessed an artist not just getting multiple standing ovations in the first act, but getting 2 standing ovations DURING THE SAME SONG! I have never seen anything like it. When she did the dramatic pause near the end of DROMP people got up and applauded. She took a little longer than average pause so that people could sit back down, she finished the song and people got back up. I particularly noticed how much emotion she is showing in both her general acting but more impressively while singing. She out right cried tears during a song and you could hear it in her voice . Just awesome.

I have been a Lea Michele fan since Glee. I stumbled across your review by the way and subscribed. He voice has matured quite a bit voxally and in her private life. I would give my rt arm to see her on Broadway.

I read the New York Times review and was really surprised at how positive it was about Lea whilst still casually trashing the show, and occasionally the audience. The few clips I've seen show the audience has no clue about when the musical number finishes so they are applauding mid song which I find as annoying as clapping mid-point in the tennis. They also said you could see Lea calculating when to pause and when to carry on, which I thought was particularly accurate from the videos I have seen. Maybe audiences in the theatre don't notice (as they are the cause) but pretty clear to those watching online. I kinda think that the cast and crew need a Fanny that keeps the show open. And it looks like Lea is that Fanny. Also I find it so weird how little coverage Ramin Karimloo gets. I have no clue if he is good, or just limited by the Arnstein role.

@ToySoldiers

Жыл бұрын

I've seen a lot of Ramin mentions in various reviews! But ultimately this show focuses on Fanny, so it makes sense 90% of the review body will focus on her and just mention the other characters in passing.

Killer intro 😊👌

OMG! Have a blast in NYC- dear lord it is crazy expensive! Esp with the pound crashing!

Lea and Ramin performing You Are Woman - kzread.info/dash/bejne/ho2sm6eOac25g9I.html Delightful pairing. Doesn't surprise me that people are loving their chemistry.

@CP-mb3sn

Жыл бұрын

This uploader's playlist has so many more songs added than last I looked. Even the tap number with the cannons that's getting the poor reviews, out of context it seems particularly questionable and was the moustache supposed to fall off?

@Makeji

Жыл бұрын

@@CP-mb3sn I love every one of the videos and no, the moustache was not supposed to fall off. I think it may have been one of those weird things they kept in because it was funny.

Just watched Lea today (Oct. 30) and she was amazing. Such a gorgeous voice and her acting was on point. I almost never cry at anything, but a few tears slipped from me during the finale. I was pleasantly surprised that her takes on the songs were not carbon copies of her solos on Glee. If you do come to NYC, definitely make sure to go to this show. I also saw Beanie during her last performance which was emotional, but it just wasn’t the right fit. The reviews are right about her vocal chops. One area I thought she did better was the comedy songs. I think Lea was fine during “Cornet Man” and “His Love Makes Me Beautiful”, but I was kind of bored during “Rat-Tat-Tat-Tat” - Beanie during these numbers was much more memorable in my opinion. Still, Lea is definitely the right choice for Fanny Brice and she made the experience rewatching this musical so enjoyable.

You and Waiting in the Wings should do a Holiday switch!

Lea didn't start out on tv or film. Lea Michele was on Broadway at age nine and had a great reputation in the theatre.

Absolutely AMAZING!!! There are no other words to describe Lea in the role of Fanny. If there is a touring production (seriously doubt) who could possibly play Fanny. Streisand owns it. Lea leases it, the Penthouse !

I think career wise , it definitely has worked more in her favor to come Into the role now., when the pressure of opening a show is gone.

You make an extremely valid point about the issues of public expectations that performers must to be morally upright in order to deserve to play a role. At the same time, should we be celebrating that a white cis woman who has mistreated her colleagues, committed micro aggressions against people of color, and undeniably experienced a vast amount of privilege, is experiencing an expansion of her platform and a boost in her career? Should a person who has directly benefited from the mistreatment and marginalization of people of color be rewarded in this way? I may be quick to judge her (forgive me, it's difficult to reframe habits developed from the influence of cancel culture), and she is a human who has undoubtedly worked very hard to find success in this field of work. It is work, and this is a job; yet the unusual nature of a career in the performing arts involves the public eye in such a way that we must question why people continue to support someone who, according to the firsthand accounts of co-workers, has made some harmful choices throughout her career. A career that involves the public the way that performing does involves an unusual amount of scrutiny and judgement, and it's important to remember that Lea Michele is a human, as her coworkers on Glee are human. I'm seeing praise for Lea Michele all over the internet for her performance as Fanny Brice, and maybe it's justified in terms of her skill as a performer, but there's a part of me that worries about the fact that even after a massive surge in the ongoing BLM movement, even after "We See You, White American Theatre," even after organizations and entire industries have committed to reforming institutions and combating the racism inherent in so many global systems, a person who has directly and negatively affected the lives of some people of color and been called out for it is now being largely absolved of those decisions and consequences. Is she truly doing the work to support BIPOC and combat racism? How much of that is our business? How can we try to see all sides of these kinds of situations with humanity and reason? There is no definitive answer to these questions, but I hope that people take her success with a grain of salt and do not automatically correlate talent with moral virtuosity. Unfortunately, I doubt the producers have given a second thought to these issues now that she's making them money. What I really want to know though, is how the rest of the people in the cast and crew are doing. They're surely working incredibly hard to keep the show on every night while COVID continues to fuck with everything. Sending appreciation and gratitude to everyone who is managing to keep theatre alive right now (especially understudies and swings). And thank you to you, Mickey Jo, for keeping us informed on all these theatrical happenings with your excellent videos.

I'm not interested in Lea Michele's behavior. I'm interested in what she does as an artist. She belongs where she is.

She also read a book on youtube a few weeks ago

Thanks for the summary. While it does seem that she behaved badly around some of her co-workers, the level of vitriol she received when the allegations came out seemed disproportionate to me. A former child actress growing up aware of their talent acting like kind of an asshole to their co-stars is unpleasant, but not wholey unexpected. I can't see it meriting the death threats and pile on she received. Seems she's treating her current co-stars well, Tovah Feldshuh is today coming for Jamie Lee's biggest supporter crown by describing herself as 'riding the wings of an angel called Lea Michele' 😆

@AK-ms2qc

Жыл бұрын

it wasnt just behaving badly though she was racist to them lol

@ToySoldiers

Жыл бұрын

@@AK-ms2qc Nah, she wasn't. Pasting my comment in another thread below... I would argue against the allegations pointing to her being racist. Several reasons why.. 1. Samantha did not hear the comment directly. She heard it from someone else during a period of time where they were snippy at each other. Who knows if it's even true or if it was accurate? And in any case, I don't think the comment is enough to label someone racist. 2. Samantha also said she wouldn't call Lea racist. Just someone who benefitted from a system that favors white people. 3. Amber also didn't say Lea was racist - she even said people just assumed that was the narrative because the person who came out to call her out was black and it was during the height of BLM. I think she was a bitch. But I also think that isn't enough reason to blacklist someone from the industry. She has the right to work in the field she is good at and people have the right NOT to pay money to support her, but that choice should be left entirely to the audience. Not people shaming other people who enjoy her talent, especially for something which in my view isn't as grave as other issues. By all accounts, she is lovely to the cast and crew she's with now. It's been years and she's been through a humbling experience. Tovah has nothing but nice things to say about her. "It's a complete team effort led by Lea Michele," says Feldshuh. "She is not only not a diva, she is so polite, so careful, so respectful and loving and not fancy. She doesn't walk the dog, if you know what I mean."

@David-le2kr

Жыл бұрын

@@AK-ms2qc Allegations of racism are exaggerated. She was an abrupt, impatient asshole to a number of co-workers, including a black person. That doesn't make it racism, and in fact, calling it racism devalues real racism.

@goatpie882

Жыл бұрын

@@David-le2kr THANK YOU!

@jlasf

Жыл бұрын

@@ToySoldiers See my comments. I echo everything you said. I summarized, "She was an equal opportunity jerk." That's not being a racist. And she was much younger and the star of the hottest show in the country. It would go anyone's head.

I live in Miami, and traveled to NY to see Leah Michelle in Funny Girl. For 2023 it’s the biggest thing on Broadway. She was great, the leading man was great and all the supporting cast. I would have liked to see a more beautiful set / set changes. Very glad I went. I paid top dollar for 4th row seats. It was very worth it. It was a legendary night to never forget.

Commenting as an outsider who only saw bootleg clips... I think blows it out of the water both in comedic as in dramatic parts... Mostly because the funny parts she more authentic and the comedy comes from that, rather than paying up a shtick... Also, I've heard several people say that she's doing a Barbra impression... I would have to respectfully disagree... I think their voices and performing styles are simillar, but ultimately lea goes her own path (isaw someone point out that there's also a bit of Judy in her performance, which I kind of see)... Ultimately I'd have to say that I love her in this role...and ultimately, I'd say that I'm all up for giving her a second chance especially since there have been people who've done much much worse and got their redemption arc... Let's give her a chance and see how she goes...

I saw Beanie in the 2nd preview of the show in March...I'm seeing Lea Michelle in three weeks...I'll report back with my review....

Child, I had to pause... What do you mean, "a comedian not just Barbra Streisand"? ☠️☠️ Barbra is THEE comedian! Always hilarious when needed. Ok back to the video 😂

I saw Beanie’s second preview and she was fine, I didn’t think she was terrible or anything but i just saw Lea a couple weeks ago and I can’t even explain how phenomenal she was. The singing, the acting, the comedy. I finally understand how this is a star vehicle. You can’t take your eyes off her.

You should come to NYC and see Beetlejuice before it closes, Funny Girl, Strange Loop and Kpop. There are really inexpensive hotels in NYC, or hostels with shared bathrooms.

It's not people who need people--it's people who are excellent singers that are the luckiest people in the world. It was Streisand's voice that landed her the part (she was not an early favorite) and propelled her career. Barbra was never considered "likable." In fact, she was the victim of never ending negative press, as well as cheap pot shots taken by coworkers. Does all of this sound familiar? Almost 60 years later, Lea Michele lands the part, but was not the first choice, and she has former coworkers taking pot shots at her. The one thing pulling her through is that she is an excellent singer and to her favor, Streisand's legendary performance makes it necessary for Broadway's new Funny Girl to also have a powerful voice. No one expects another Streisand, but Broadway fans expects an accomplished singer. Beanie did not meet that expectation. Lea does. That the producers had to go after Lea after the negative reviews, dwindling grosses, rumors of nepotism and a major Tony snub, is no surprise. Producers are quick to swallow their pride when they are losing money. Ultimately, Broadway is about profits.

“The only viable marketable option” You say it all within the first few seconds.

Lea Michele was amazing. She made me laugh and cry at the same time. Thank you for every dance step, lights, chords of the orchestra, makeup and above all costumes. Thanks for the amazing stage. Funny Girl in AUGUST WILSON THEATRE forever!

I've now seen Beanie, Julie & Lea in the role on broadway (I know, too much...). I saw Lea on her second night during the Wednesday evening performance and the crowd went insane for her, although it did make it a bit more difficult to really assess how she was doing from a performance stand point. Overall, she was great! I honestly feel like she probably is a little bit better now that she has settled. She broke a glass during the show on accident, her and Ramin broke character and the audience was in stitches. I feel like from then on she was really loosened up and nailed the role in that particular performance. Julie to me has been the best Fanny that I've seen so far though. Don't get me wrong, Lea's voice is INSANELY good. But maybe its because Julie is the only one that I had no pre-conceived notion on prior to seeing the show so that allowed me to just see her as Fanny (instead of seeing Beanie Feldestein AS Fanny Brice or Lea Michele AS Fanny Brice). Julie WAS Fanny Brice in my eyes cause that's all I knew her to be in any form.

@loveismylanguage9162

Жыл бұрын

Julies seemed to have the comedic part down. She is able to balance the vocals and comedy. Lea to me has the vocals the fanbase soo people will rant and rave. I think she has a beautiful voice I do feel like people have over exaggerated it though. Love her talent. I can’t get over Barbras version though, she embodied the role and it’s hard for me to even think of another doing it justice.

I saw Lea last week if u had any questions about the show! Overall 10/10 I would watch it again if I had an opportunity… also! I understand why Jared Grimes got that Tony nomination! He was amazing

This is off-topic, but has anyone else noticed a difference in the availability of slime tutorials? I looked around, but couldn't find ANY bootlegs for Bennie. But now, all of a sudden, there are several blatant recordings of Lea Michele easily available online. (In addition to the Tonight Show and Good Morning America performances.)

More more more musical theater in depth critiquing love your delivery and you are quite charming. I only saw Barbra in the role and no one in my opinion can touch Lea Michelle in a sorts yells a lot that’s why the critic loves her vulnerability in the dance song. She is to hard not beanie nor Lea could capture the comedic performance given by Babs. I enjoy you Mickey …. I was devastated concerning Phantom. Seen it 6 times in New York and that is the best musical ever written. I like a lot of the music from bad Cinderella I hate to see Webber take another hit. Hopefully he will be ok Thank you for the comments and the sweet way you handled everything in this video❤

Miss Streisand sang My Man on the closing night of Funny Girl in 65