Broadway

The real history behind 'Operation Mincemeat' on Broadway

Five people in business attire stand in a line on stage, each performing a salute with their right hand, in front of a blue grid-patterned backdrop.

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The award-winning musical comedy from London, now at NYC's Golden Theatre, tells the story of a bizarre deception mission that turned the tide of World War II.

See photos of 'Real Women Have Curves' on Broadway

Three women stand together on stage, holding hands and looking at each other under warm lighting, with a backdrop of large windows and a desk behind them.

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The musical adaptation of the 1990 play by Josefina López tells a coming-of-age story about a teenager choosing between her dreams and her family's.

Michael Patrick Thornton joins Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter in 'Waiting for Godot' Broadway cast

A man with short light brown hair, fair skin, and a serious expression looks directly at the camera in front of a dark background.

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Director Jamie Lloyd's revival of Samuel Beckett's classic play will have a strictly limited engagement at the Hudson Theatre beginning in September.

See the Broadway stars featured in Variety's Actors on Actors

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Get tickets

The two-time Oscar winner makes his Broadway debut in *Good Night, and Good Luck*, an adaptation of his Oscar-nominated 2005 film, through June 8 only. [George Clooney](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/george-clooney) stars as broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow, who went toe-to-toe with Senator Joseph McCarthy over ethics and the truth live on air.

Get [*Good Night, and Good Luck* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/41006-good-night-and-good-luck-on-broadway) now.

George Clooney in Good Night, and Good Luck

She's got an Emmy for *Succession* and an Olivier for *Dorian Gray* — and now that [Sarah Snook](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/sarah-snook) is on Broadway, she's a contender for a Tony, too. Snook plays every character in this high-tech, cinematic adaptation of Oscar Wilde's novel about a man desperate to stay young and beautiful.

Get [*The Picture of Dorian Gray* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/15368-the-picture-of-dorian-gray-on-broadway) now.

Sarah Snook in The Picture of Dorian Gray

[Nicole Scherzinger](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/nicole-scherzinger) is ready for her close-up as Norma Desmond, a fading film star desperate to claw her way back into the spotlight. She reprises her Olivier Award-winning performance from London in director Jamie Lloyd's thrilling, film noir-esque revival of *Sunset Boulevard*.

Get [*Sunset Boulevard* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/38372-sunset-boulevard-broadway) now.

Nicole Scherzinger in Sunset Boulevard

The critically acclaimed, off-the-wall historical comedy *Oh, Mary!* made playwright and actor [Cole Escola](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/cole-escola) a breakout star. They reimagine Mary Todd Lincoln as a wannabe cabaret star dealing with repression, alcoholism, and desire in the weeks leading up to her husband's assassination.

Get [*Oh, Mary!* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/37743-oh-mary) now.

Cole Escola in Oh, Mary!

The most critically acclaimed show of the season, *Maybe Happy Ending* stars [Darren Criss](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/darren-criss) and [Helen J. Shen](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/helen-j-shen) as robots who spark an unexpected love connection just when it looks like their warranty's running out.

Get [*Maybe Happy Ending* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/41018-maybe-happy-ending-on-broadway) now.

Darren Criss in Maybe Happy Ending

It's [Audra McDonald](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/audra-mcdonald)'s turn as Momma Rose, the iconic musical theatre role played by greats like [Bernadette Peters](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/bernadette-peters), Imelda Staunton, and fellow Actors on Actors participant [Patti LuPone](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/patti-lupone). McDonald, the most Tony-winning performer of all time (6), plays a "stage mother" who will do anything to make her two daughters famous.

Get [*Gypsy* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/41161-gypsy-on-broadway) now.

Audra McDonald in Gypsy

Learn more

Fresh off his Oscar win for *A Real Pain*, [Kieran Culkin](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/kieran-culkin) stars opposite [Bob Odenkirk](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/bob-odenkirk) and [Bill Burr](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/bill-burr) in the Pulitzer-winning *Glengarry Glen Ross*, about real estate agents' cutthroat competition to sell the most or lose their jobs.

[Check back for information on *Glengarry Glen Ross* tickets on New York Theatre Guide.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/41986-glengarry-glen-ross-on-broadway)

Kieran Culkin in Glengarry Glen Ross

[Jake Gyllenhaal](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/jake-gyllenhaal) and [Denzel Washington](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/denzel-washington) duke it out in Shakespeare's celebrated tragedy about the titular Othello (Washington), a renowned military general, and his ensign Iago (Gyllenhaal), who schemes and manipulates to ruin him.

[Check back for information on *Othello* tickets on New York Theatre Guide.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/40030-othello-on-broadway)

Jake Gyllenhaal in Othello

Look out, Johnny's back! [Jonathan Groff](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/jonathan-groff), a 2024 Tony Award winner for *Merrily We Roll Along*, returns to Broadway in the Bobby Darin bio-musical *Just in Time*. Groff charms as the iconic singer whose hits include "Splish Splash," "Dream Lover," and "Mack the Knife."

[Check back for information on *Just in Time* tickets on New York Theatre Guide.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/42905-just-in-time-on-broadway)

Jonathan Groff in Just in Time

Participants like George Clooney, Sarah Snook, Cole Escola, Darren Criss, Nicole Scherzinger, and more are currently headlining major plays and musicals.

Best Broadway shows in New York in May 2025

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Winner of four Best Musical prizes for its 2024 Off-Broadway premiere, *Dead Outlaw* tells the story of a bandit whose corpse was embalmed and displayed as a carnival sideshow and museum attraction for decades. It's told with rollicking folk rock music — and it's 100% true.

Get [*Dead Outlaw* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/38531-dead-outlaw) now.

Dead Outlaw

A World War II mission — one involving a stolen corpse, no less — doesn't sound like a musical comedy, but this hit British show proves that wrong. With catchy tunes and plenty of laughs, *Operation Mincemeat* tells the story of the real-life operation that turned the tide in the Allies' favor and the mad geniuses behind it. 

Get [*Operation Mincemeat* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/42735-operation-mincemeat-on-broadway) now.

Operation Mincemeat

The [best-reviewed musical](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/reviews/maybe-happy-ending-broadway-review-darren-criss-helen-j-shen) of the season, *Maybe Happy Ending* is your typical love story — almost. Boy ([Darren Criss](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/darren-criss)) meets girl ([Helen J. Shen](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/helen-j-shen)), and after a rocky start, they go on an adventure through South Korea and maybe fall in love. Did we mention they're robots?

Get [*Maybe Happy Ending* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/41018-maybe-happy-ending-on-broadway) now.

Maybe Happy Ending

Now a warning? *Death Becomes Her* has made audiences die of laughter on Broadway since the fall. The no-holds-barred musical comedy is adapted from the 1992 Meryl Streep/Goldie Hawn film about frenemies who each take an anti-aging potion to remain young and beautiful forever. And ever.

Get [*Death Becomes Her* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/34895-death-becomes-her-on-broadway) now.

Death Becomes Her

Let the music move you at this vibrant new musical about the [Grammy Award-winning Cuban music group](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/theatre-news/news/the-real-history-behind-buena-vista-social-club-on-broadway). Decades after the Cuban Revolution upended their careers, older musicians reunite to make a record that will usher in a renaissance of old-school Latin sounds — and we defy you not to dance in your seat.

Get [*Buena Vista Social Club* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/31351-buena-vista-social-club) now.

Buena Vista Social Club

This celebratory new musical, adapted from the hit play and film, tells a story of coming-of-age, acceptance, and ambition. Eighteen-year-old Ana must choose between pursuing her dreams of college and a career in NYC and staying in Los Angeles to work at her immigrant family's dress factory.

Get [*Real Women Have Curves* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/12886-real-women-have-curves-on-broadway) now.

Real Women Have Curves

Nicole Scherzinger is ready for her close-up. Now extended through July 13, *Sunset Boulevard* is a thrilling, cinematic Broadway musical about a film star obsessively clinging to the fame she thinks she still has.

Get [*Sunset Boulevard* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/38372-sunset-boulevard-broadway) now.

Sunset Boulevard

It's six-time Tony Award winner [Audra McDonald](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/audra-mcdonald)'s turn as Momma Rose, one of the most iconic roles in musical theatre. *Gypsy* follows this stage mother's obsessive attempts to make her two daughters into stars, and it features classic songs like "Everything's Coming Up Roses" and "Together Wherever We Go."

Get [*Gypsy* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/41161-gypsy-on-broadway) now.

Gypsy

One of the [best-reviewed new plays](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/reviews/john-proctor-is-the-villain-broadway-review-sadie-sink) of the season, *John Proctor Is the Villain* turns a classic story on its head. A group of high school girls studying *The Crucible* start to question what they're being taught in light of shocking scandals in their rural Georgia town.

Get [*John Proctor Is the Villain* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/43024-john-proctor-is-the-villain-on-broadway) now.

John Proctor Is the Villain

Playwright [Cole Escola](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/cole-escola) and the full original cast of this hit comedy have returned! Escola stars as Mary Todd Lincoln, who grapples with desire, alcoholism, and an all-consuming desire to be a cabaret star in the weeks before her husband's assassination.

Get [*Oh, Mary!* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/37743-oh-mary) now.

Oh, Mary!

*Succession*'s [Sarah Snook](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/sarah-snook) delivers an unmissable solo performance in the first Broadway adaptation of Oscar Wilde's novel, playing dozens of characters in the story of a man who remains young while his portrait reveals his deteriorating soul.

Get [*The Picture of Dorian Gray* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/15368-the-picture-of-dorian-gray-on-broadway) now.

The Picture of Dorian Gray

*Stranger Things*'s [Maya Hawke](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/maya-hawke) plays the title role in Sarah Ruhl's adaptation of a classic Greek myth. When Eurydice dies shortly after her marriage to Orpheus, she reunites with her father in the underworld, complicating her decision to go back to the world of the living or not when Orpheus comes for her.

Get [*Eurydice* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/40571-eurydice-signature) now.

Eurydice

*Bowl EP* features something most plays don't: live skateboarding. As Kelly K Klarkson and Quentavius da Quitter try to figure out a name for their rap group, they flirt, skate, rap, open up, and get closer to their goal — and to each other.

Get [*Bowl EP* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/41117-bowl-ep) now.

Bowl EP

Inspired by the African myth of Marimba, a deity who made music out of heartbreak, *Goddess* follows a mysterious woman who enchants everyone she meets and upends the future of a young man who visits her Afro-jazz club in Kenya.

Get [*Goddess* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/42652-goddess-public-theater) now.

Goddess

The New York Post once captioned an iconic paparazzi photo of Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, and Britney Spears "the three bimbos of the apocalypse" — but there's a fourth person in the picture. Who is she? In this pop-fueled musical, a group of young internet sleuths are determined to find out.

Get [*The Last Bimbo of the Apocalpyse* tickets](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/42440-the-last-bimbo-of-the-apocalypse) now.

The Last Bimbo of the Apocalpyse

[Hugh Jackman](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/hugh-jackman) and [Ella Beatty](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/ella-beatty) star in this slippery new play about university professor and novelist Jon (Jackman), already nearing the end of his third marriage. He ends up in dangerous territory with the arrival of 19-year-old Annie (Beatty), with whom he shares a dangerous mutual attraction.

[Check back for information on *Sexual Misconduct of the Middle Classes* tickets on New York Theatre Guide.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/44026-sexual-misconduct-of-the-middle-classes)

Sexual Misconduct of the Middle Classes

Deception, seduction, and revelation arise when struggling painter Adi sparks an intimate connection with Gustav, who in turn becomes interested in Adi's wife, Tekla. [Liev Schreiber](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/liev-schreiber), [Justice Smith](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/justice-smith), and [Maggie Siff](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/maggie-siff) lead August Strindberg's twisted psychological thriller.

[Check back for information on *Creditors* tickets on New York Theatre Guide.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/44028-creditors)

Creditors

On the day of the final broadcast of Nat King Cole's variety show, he can either exit quietly — or, in the advice of Sammy Davis Jr., "go out with a bang." Emmy Award nominee Dulé Hill and Tony Award nominee Daniel J. Watts star as the two iconic singers in this new musical featuring Cole's hit songs.

[Check back for information on *Lights Out: Nat "King" Cole* tickets on New York Theatre Guide.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/41157-lights-out-nat-king-cole)

Lights Out: Nat "King" Cole

Elizabeth Marvel leads this new play as a visionary fashion photographer whose dream gig — a Vogue cover shoot at a crumbling European estate — turns out to be a nightmare in which she must still find and capture the beauty.

[Check back for information on *Five Models in Ruins, 1981* tickets on New York Theatre Guide.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/43846-five-models-in-ruins-1981)

Five Models in Ruins, 1981

William Inge's classic play gets a new spin as an all-Asian American cast takes on his Midwestern tale. When bus passengers are forced to stop at a diner on a snowy night, strangers collide and find unexpected warmth in each other. Midori Francis (*Dash & Lily*) stars.

[Check back for information on *Bus Stop* tickets on New York Theatre Guide.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/41413-bus-stop)

Bus Stop

Discover our top picks for Broadway shows and Off-Broadway shows to see in May, including new shows premiering and last-chance shows closing this month.

Top theatre to see in New York in May | New York Theatre Guide

Discover new Broadway shows and Off-Broadway shows to check out across New York City in May 2025, including star-studded plays, original musicals, and more.

The ultimate Broadway guide for first-timers

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Find answers to common questions about Broadway shows, theatres, tickets, seating sections, etiquette, accessibility, and more to make your first trip as smooth as possible.

Lena Dunham, Carly Rae Jepsen writing '10 Things I Hate About You' musical for Broadway

A yellow sticky note reads "10 Things I Hate About You the musical" placed on top of sheet music.

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The musician and the actor are among the creative team for this stage adaptation of the romantic comedy film starring Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger.

Discover the musicians of 'Buena Vista Social Club' on Broadway

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Lost to history for decades, the artists of the titular Cuban music group were rediscovered in the '90s, and the stage musical's cast brings them to life anew.

Phillip Boykin, KC Dela Cruz join 'Hadestown' Broadway cast

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The two actors step into leading roles in the eight-time Tony Award-winning Best Musical at the Walter Kerr Theatre beginning tonight, April 22.

'Jeff Ross: Take A Banana For The Ride' plans Broadway run

A bald man in a yellow jacket smiles, holding a ripe banana in the foreground against an orange background.

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The Emmy-nominated comedian will take his solo comedy show on a U.S. tour this summer before a planned premiere in NYC at a date and theatre to be announced.

She's the greatest star! On October 7, Lea Michele went on Good Morning America to talk about starring in [*Funny Girl*](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/24232-funny-girl-tickets) on Broadway as Fanny Brice and perform the musical's most famous song, "Don't Rain on My Parade."

*Funny Girl* is based on the story of real-life Ziegfeld Follies showgirl Fanny Brice, who puts fame on the line for a romance with the gambler Nick Arnstein. Michele, who is best known for starring on the TV show Glee began performing the role in September, years after her Glee character starred in a fictional revival of the show on screen.

Watch Michele's GMA appearance below, and get tickets to see her perform in *Funny Girl* live at the [August Wilson Theatre](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/theatres/august-wilson-theatre).

[Watch Michele and the *Funny Girl* cast perform "Don’t Rain on My Parade."](https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/video/lea-michele-cast-funny-girl-perform-dont-rain-91157283)

[Watch Michele's GMA interview about *Funny Girl*.](https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/funny-girl-star-lea-michele-son-loves-momma/story?id=91162212)

Watch Lea Michele perform 'Funny Girl' on Good Morning America

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Funny Girl on Broadway - NYC

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Funny Girl on Broadway

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Life's candy and the sun's a ball of butter now that Funny Girl is on Broadway! Lea Michele stars as Fanny Brice through September 3 only.

Funny Girl has become a musical theatre classic most notable for the song "Don't Rain On My Parade." Though it has been produced on the West End and worldwide, it has not had a Broadway revival until now.

The Funny Girl musical tells the semi-autobiographical story of Fanny Brice, a real-life Ziegfeld Follies star who entered into a turbulent relationship with the gambler Nicky Arnstein. As she waits for him to return from prison, she reflects on her relationship with Arnstein and how she met him at the outset of her performance career. Fanny falls into a luxurious life with him and is determined not to let his past dealings in gambling interfere with their love. By choosing to stay with Nick, however, Fanny is making a big wager of her own in more ways than one.

Funny Girl first opened on Broadway in 1964 with Barbra Streisand in the title role. The production ran for more than 1,300 performances over three years and received eight Tony Award nominations. A hit film adaptation was released four years later, gathering eight Academy Award nominations. Streisand, reprising her leading role, won Best Actress.

## How long is *Funny Girl* on Broadway?

*Funny Girl* is 2 hours and 50 minutes, including an intermission. Children under 4 are not permitted in the theatre.

## When does Lea Michele start in *Funny Girl*?

Lea Michele started in *Funny Girl* on September 6, 2022. Lea Michele performs in *Funny Girl* seven performances a week. On Thursday nights, Julie Benko plays the role of Fanny Brice.

Get ready to hear the music that makes you dance once again.

Funny Girl - NYC - New York Theatre Guide

funny girl header image-nytg

Get tickets to Funny Girl on Broadway from the official New York Theatre Guide. See Lea Michele play an iconic role in the first revival of this musical classic.

Funny Girl Broadway Tickets | The Official NY Theatre Guide

*Glee*'s Lea Michele plays the title role famously originated by Barbra Streisand. Experience this raucous Broadway revival, *Funny Girl*'s first, and hear the gleeful anthem "Don't Rain on My Parade" and more. Don't miss Michele as the greatest star in *Funny Girl*; learn more about tickets now.

The *Funny Girl* musical tells the semi-autobiographical story of variety performer Fanny Brice, who defied the odds to become a comedy actress in the legendary Ziegfeld Follies. She falls in love with the suave gambler Nick Arnstein, but Nick’s shady past casts a shadow on their relationship. Can she have fame and love at once, or does choosing one mean losing the other? 

*Funny Girl*'s story of determination, romance, and life in the theatre is perfect for anyone looking to laugh, and Fanny is relatable to anyone who's ever taken a chance on a dream.

The original *Funny Girl* Broadway production, featuring a book by Isobel Stennart, music by Jule Styne, and lyrics by Bob Merrill, premiered in 1964 to critical acclaim. Within four years, a film adaptation came out that made a household name — and an Academy Award winner — out of Barbra Streisand.

Both iterations of the show have cemented their legacy in performing arts history: *Funny Girl*'s original Broadway cast recording is in the Grammy Hall of Fame, and the *Funny Girl* movie is in the National Film Registry as a culturally significant movie.

## What to Watch For

- *Glee* fans will recognize *Funny Girl* as lead character Rachel Berry’s (played by Lea Michele) favorite musical. Rachel even auditions for a fictional revival of the show during Glee’s fifth season, lands the role of Fanny, and wins a Tony Award for it. How fitting, then, that Michele landed the role in real life! 
- This *Funny Girl* Broadway revival features a revised book based on Stennart’s original, penned by four-time Tony winner Harvey Fierstein. A 2015 London revival of Funny Girl was the first to use his book.
- *Fanny Brice* performed in Broadway shows including *Fioretta*, *Sweet and Low*, and *Billy Rose's Crazy Quilt*.
- Brice’s son-in-law Ray Stark, who was married to Brice’s daughter with Nick Arnstein, produced the original *Funny Girl* musical.
- The original Broadway production was nominated for eight Tony Awards in 1964 but won none. Granted, *Funny Girl* had stiff competition — the show lost in five categories, including Best Musical, to *Hello, Dolly!* starring Carol Channing.
- Carol Burnett originally turned down the starring role in the ‘60s, as Fanny was Jewish, but Burnett wasn’t. Styne thought of Streisand after seeing her on Broadway in *I Can Get It For You Wholesale*, and the rest is history!

Funny Girl - NYC - TodayTix

Lea Michele in *Funny Girl* on Broadway is the theatre event of the season. It’s live theatre at its finest. It’s the perfect marriage of actress and role. The very nature of attending this show is theatrical.

For the uninitiated, Lea Michele is a seasoned Broadway performer, who made her debut in *Les Misérables* at age 8 and rose to fame in her early 20s in the cult hit *Spring Awakening* before going on to more mainstream television roles, namely the ambitious and talented Rachel Berry on Ryan Murphy’s show choir dramedy *Glee* from 2009-15.

On said series, Michele played a ruthless teenager dead set on making it on Broadway, namely in the titular role in *Funny Girl*. She sang the iconic Act 1 finale “Don’t Rain on My Parade” during the first season and later performed the number on the Tony Awards. In the show’s final season, the character made her Broadway debut in *Funny Girl* and won the Tony for her performance. 

While Michele won’t win a Tony Award for this outing – Tonys are only given to performers who originated the role, and Michele replaces [Beanie Feldstein](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/beanie-feldstein), who left the production over the summer – she is making quite the splash in her first time on Broadway in over a decade. It’s impossible to parse out every layer of meta-theatricality at play here, not least because the show itself is a show-within-a-show about a starry-eyed Ziegfeld comic hoping to become the “greatest star.”

But even without all the added contextual layers, Michele stands alone as a singular Broadway performer, one who can pack a house and command a crowd and also hit all the right notes and laughs. And even years on, she brings the same bright-eyed optimism and ingenuity that made audiences fall in love with her. When she sings “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” the audience feels as if they are somehow fulfilling a dream alongside her, and while premature claps and mid-song standing ovations can seem distracting, it’s all a part of this singular theatregoing experience. You, the audience, are also part of this spectacle.

Broadway and television favorite Tovah Feldshuh joined the company with Michele as Fanny’s overprotective mother, and she chews on all the scenery, stealing the show with numbers like “Henry Street” when Fanny returns home to a party the neighborhood where she grew up. Jared Grimes, who earned a Tony nomination for his jubilant and tap-tastic performance as Fanny’s friend Eddie Ryan, continues to give 110% in a thankless side role. With Grimes in the tap shoes, though, Eddie’s energy jumps right off the stage. 

Ramin Karimloo stars as Nick Armstein, Fanny’s gambling addict of a manager-turned-husband, and while the role turns back the clock on feminism several years, Karimloo is charming and endearing even where his character falls short. 

Directed by Michael Mayer, the production is cool and crisp, with stylish throwback choreography by Ellenore Scott (and gorgeous tap choreography by Ayodele Casel) and seamless sets by David Zinn and eye-popping costumes by Susan Hilferty. 

While Harvey Fierstein’s revision of the book can’t do much to save the dated show (original book by Isobel Lennart), the audience isn’t coming to see the show for the plot. They’re coming for Jule Styne and Bob Merrill’s iconic songs, sung by the titular girl. After all, people who need people are the luckiest people in the world, and this crowd needs Lea Michele. 

[*Funny Girl* is running at the August Wilson Theatre on Broadway. Get *Funny Girl* tickets on New York Theatre Guide. 
](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/24232-funny-girl-tickets)

'Funny Girl' review — Lea Michele is the greatest star in her triumphant Broadway return

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Read our review of Lea Michele in Funny Girl on Broadway on New York Theatre Guide.

Funny Girl starring Lea Michele Broadway Review | New York Theatre Guide

Lea Michele currently stars in *Funny Girl* on Broadway.

Lea Michele Sarfati is an actor and singer best known for playing Rachel Berry in the television series *Glee* and originating the role of Wendla in the Tony Award-winning musical *Spring Awakening* on Broadway. 

Born August 29, 1986, in The Bronx, New York, Michele made her Broadway debut early in life. While attending an audition with a friend at age 8, Michele unexpectedly auditioned for and landed the role of Young Cosette in *Les Misérables*. Later, she joined a Toronto-based production of *Ragtime* in 1998 and returned to Broadway in 2004 for the revival of *Fiddler on the Roof* as Shprintze. 

As a high school student in New Jersey, Michele attended the Stagedoor Manor performing arts training center, where she was in productions such as *Side by Side by Sondheim* and *The Who’s Tommy*. During her final year, she landed the role of Wendla in the workshop of Duncan Sheik’s *Spring Awakening*, which she would also perform off Broadway. During this time, Michele was accepted into New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts but turned it down to continue performing on stage.

*Spring Awakening* opened on Broadway in 2006, with Michele portraying Wendla alongside Jonathan Groff as Melchior. She turned down an offer to play Éponine in *Les Misérables* on Broadway, choosing to stay with *Spring Awakening* instead. She exited the production alongside Groff in 2008.

Michele made her silver screen breakout in 2009 as Rachel Berry on the hit comedy musical series *Glee*. Michele received Golden Globe and Emmy Award nominations for her portrayal of Rachel and remained a regular on the show for six seasons. Michele has also starred in other television shows, including *Scream Queens*, alongside Jamie Lee Curtis, and *The Mayor*, alongside Brandon Micheal Hall and Yvette Nicole Brown.

In addition to her stage and screen work, Michele has released three studio albums. Her first album, 2014’s *Louder*, debuted at number 28 on the Billboard 200 chart. In 2017, she released *Places*, followed by *Christmas in the City* in 2019. 

Michele reunited with her *Spring Awakening* cast for a performance at the 75th annual Tony Awards and a one-night-only concert, which became the documentary *Spring Awakening: Those You’ve Known*. 

In 2022, Michele returned to Broadway and took over the role of Fanny Brice in the *Funny Girl* revival alongside [Ramin Karimloo](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/stars-on-stage/ramin-karimloo) and Tovah Feldshuh.

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Ramin Karimloo plays Frederick Barrett in the Encores! production of [*Titanic*](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/31940-encores-titanic) at [New York City Center](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/theatres/new-york-city-center) from June 12-23, 2024.

Ramin Karimloo was born in Tehran, Iran, on September 19, 1978. He moved to Canada at a young age and attended the Alexander Mackenzie High School in Richmond Hill, Ontario. After leaving school at 18, Ramin jobbed for the next few years in rock bands and on ship cruises. After moving to England, his first major professional job came in 2001, when he joined the UK touring cast of&nbsp;The Pirates of Penzance&nbsp;and eventually took over the role of the Pirate King in 2002. He moved straight onto his next UK Tour that same year, playing Artie Green in&nbsp;Sunset Boulevard, until he was able to secure his West End debut, joining the cast of London's long-running musical&nbsp;Les Misérables.

The Schönberg-Boublil musical would play a major part in his life and Ramin would return to the West End production in 2004 to play the role of Enjolras, which he would reprise at the acclaimed 25th Anniversary Concert at The O2 Arena in 2010. He first played the lead role of Jean Valjean in the West End in 2011 and went on to reprise his performance in Toronto in 2013. Finally, Ramin made his Broadway debut as Jean Valjean in Cameron Mackintosh's&nbsp;2014 revival and went on to earn his first&nbsp;Tony Award nomination in the category of Best Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical.

Ramin also played the role of Chris in the 2005 UK Tour of another popular Schönberg-Boublil musical -&nbsp;Miss Saigon.

The other musical that has undeniably propelled Ramin's stage career into stardom is Andrew Lloyd Webber's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/the-phantom-of-the-opera" target="_blank">The Phantom of the Opera</a>. He first played the role of Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny, in the West End production in 2003, and returned to the same production in 2007 to play The Phantom himself. He reprised the role at The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall&nbsp;in 2011. Ramin also originated the role of The Phantom in the world premiere of the sequel&nbsp;Love Never Dies&nbsp;in 2010 at London's Adelphi Theatre, earning his first Olivier Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical.

Other notable credits in Ramin's career include the world premiere of&nbsp;Prince of Broadway&nbsp;in Japan in 2015, the Lincoln Center concert productions of&nbsp;Parade&nbsp;in 2015 and&nbsp;Secret Garden&nbsp;in 2016, as well as&nbsp;a West End run as Tom in&nbsp;Murder Ballad.&nbsp;He returned to Broadway and took on the roles of Gleb Vaganov in the new stage adaptation of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/show/anastasia" target="_blank">Anastasia</a>&nbsp;in March 2017 and the role of Nick Arnstein in the first Broadway revival of Funny Girl in 2022.

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Ramin Karimloo

The August Wilson Theatre, located in the heart of Manhattan, is one of New York's iconic historical landmarks. Named after Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson, the venue hosts an array of award-winning Broadway performances. This theatre has an expansive total seating capacity of 1,222, making it an ideal environment for large scale performances. The interior reflects an Art Nouveau style featuring a grand lobby with high ceilings and intricately designed walls. The theatre’s plush seating, opulent detailing, and great acoustics create an intimate experience for viewers, compelling them to feel a part of the performance. It has managed to preserve its early 20th-century charm while presenting modern productions. **How to get to the venue**: The August Wilson Theatre is centrally located at 245 W 52nd St, making it easily accessible via numerous transportation means. Visitors can take the 1, C, E subway lines to 50th Street or the N, Q, R, W lines to 57th Street. If you prefer to bus, the M104, M20 or M7 bus lines have nearby stops. If you choose to drive, commercial parking garages are available around the theatre district. Those choosing to ride-share can set their destination to the theatre directly.

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August Wilson Theatre

August Wilson Theatre - TodayTix

The August Wilson Theatre has gone through a number of name changes. The building originally opened as the Guild Theatre in 1925 and went on to be used as a Radio Playhouse (WOR Mutual Radio) from 1943 to 1950.

From the 1950s, the venue became a theatre again, operating under the name of the Anta Playhouse (aka Anta Theatre). In 1981, the building was re-christened the Virginia Theatre, before assuming its present name on October 16, 2005 — two weeks after the death of the American playwright August Wilson. Wilson became the first Black person to have a Broadway theatre named for them.

## How to get to the August Wilson Theatre on Broadway

To get to the August Wilson Theatre, take the C, E, or 1 line to 50th Street and walk two blocks; the theatre is located on 52nd Street between Eighth Avenue and Broadway. Audiences can also take the M20 or M104 bus line to the 8th Ave/W 52nd St. stop.

## Restaurants near the August Wilson Theatre

Popular restaurants near the August Wilson Theatre include Haswell Green's (American), Gallagher's Steakhouse, and Rosie O'Grady's (steak and seafood). Ellen's Stardust Diner, a famous restaurant featuring singing waitstaff, is also nearby.

[Learn more about popular pre- and post-show restaurants in the Theatre District.](https://www.newyorktheatreguide.com/theatre-news/news/where-to-eat-before-and-after-a-broadway-show)

August Wilson Theatre - New York Theatre Guide

The August Wilson Theatre, formerly known as the Guild Theatre, the Radio Playhouse, and the Virginia Theatre, is accessible by C, E, or 1 subway lines and M20 or M104 bus lines. Nearby restaurants include Haswell Green's, Gallagher's Steakhouse, Rosie O'Grady's, and Ellen's Stardust Diner.

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The August Wilson Theatre is a historic venue in New York known for its large capacity and award-winning Broadway performances.

Watch Lea Michele perform 'Funny Girl' on Good Morning America

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