Hannah Shankman and Stephen Mark Lukas Photo by Matthew Murphy

Funny Girl tells the story of comedienne Fanny Brice, who went from performing in burlesque shows to being the biggest star in vaudeville and the Ziegfeld Follies during the first quarter of the 1900s. The musical follows her rise to fame and unique courtship and marriage to entrepreneur and gambler Nicky Arnstein. The show was produced by Brice's real-life son-in-law Ray Stark and premiered in 1964.

The original book was by Isobel Lennart, but it has been revised by Harvey Fierstein for the revival. The story is clearly conveyed, with early scenes emphasizing Fanny's unique comedy skills and lack of traditional showgirl good looks. There is plenty of humor, especially in Act 1, and a healthy mix of romance, drama, and showbiz razzamatazz. The tale does turn darker after intermission and feels a bit padded in Act 2 as well. Still, this is a likeable lead character with an engaging story and intriguing supporting characters to boot.

The score by Jule Styne (music) and Bob Merrill (lyrics) contains numerous outstanding songs that have become Broadway standards. Styne's catchy melodies include rousing anthems, pastiche production numbers, and delicate internal ballads. Merrill's lyrics include smart wordplay and adherence to old-school (in the best way) demands on rhyming, and they fit well with the gorgeous music. Songs include "Who Are You Now?," the comical "I'm the Greatest Star," "People," "The Music That Makes Me Dance," and, of course, the magnificent "Don't Rain on My Parade."

One of the reasons there are so few productions of the show is the difficulty in finding an actress who can meet both the comedic and vocal skills required for the leading role. Barbra Streisand originated the role, and the recent New York revival saw Lea Michele (Glee) replace Beanie Feldstein after the latter received less than stellar reviews. For the tour, Hannah Shankman is a delight as Fanny. She captures the character's tough-as-nails attitude, displays excellent comic timing and delivery, and possesses (and shows off) both a lovely tone and the power and range to sing the score impressively.

As Nick, Stephen Mark Lukas has debonair good looks and sings well, and he has strong chemistry with Shankman. Grammy award-winning singer/actress Melissa Manchester employs a humorous character voice and is well suited as Fanny's mother. Izaiah Montaque Harris tap-dances up a storm as Eddie, Fanny's mentor and friend. The remaining supporting cast and members of the ensemble provide fine performances throughout.

Director Michael Mayer paints fun stage pictures with his blocking and vision. His staging of the comical seduction scene during "You Are Woman, I Am Man" is especially praiseworthy. The choreography by Ellenore Scott and Ayodele Casel is fun and active. Elaine Davidson leads a strong, 13-piece orchestra consisting of a mix of local and touring musicians.

The set design by David Zinn is a bit of a mixed bag. The many locales are rendered clearly and are quite varied, and the elements for the Ziegfeld Follies and several other settings are opulent and beautiful. However, a few of the scenic features seem ill-fitted and rough and ready, especially toward the beginning of the show. The lighting by Kevin Adams wisely takes many cues from the music, and the stage is often bathed in bright colors befitting the mood and tone of the moment. Susan Hilferty's costumes are attractive, with the Ziegfeld outfits being aptly elegant.

Funny Girl is rarely produced, and the national tour provides a first-rate staging of the show, including a lovely performance by Hannah Shankman as Fanny Brice. Cincinnati audiences should flock to see this show while the opportunity exists.

Funny Girl runs through December 1, 2024, at the Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati OH. For tickets and information, please call 513-621-2787 or visit cincinnati.broadway.com. For information on the tour, visit funnygirlonbroadway.com/tour/.