FUNNY GIRL It made Barbra Streisand’s name, was re-invented by Sheridan Smith, and is one of the most highly sought-after roles in musical theatre. Taking on Fanny Brice when Funny Girl comes to Norwich this summer, Natasha J Barnes tells us more. How long have you been acting and singing? Did you start as a child? A. I grew up on Disney films and old musical movies. My favourites were Funny Girl and Calamity Jane, so I always had an ear for the older sounds. I started at five in a local drama club on a Thursday night. Q. What do you like about the character of Fanny Brice? A. I never, ever thought I would play her... I’m a short blonde girl from the English countryside, and she is a hard-nosed Brooklyn Jew. I suppose the fact that, in her bones, she sticks out from the crowd, and I never felt like I fitted in at school. We do have certain things in common! Q. What is it like to sing those iconic Barbra Streisand numbers and have there been any particular challenges? A. The challenge was stripping away the memory of all the different versions she had
created through her music career. It was about going back to the way the music was originally written. Q. How did you feel as the understudy when you stepped in for Sheridan Smith in the role last March? A. Obviously you are playing to an audience who booked to see a particular person, so there is an added pressure, but the role is so big that you really can lose yourself in the show. Q. How did you feel when you were told you would be taking on the role in your own right for parts of the tour? A. It was a wonderful feeling. I wasn’t finished exploring the part, even after I did over 100 shows in the West End. To play her in my own right is something I’m very grateful for.
Q. Did you enjoy being in panto at The Palladium? What was it like to work alongside such an eclectic celebrity cast as Julian Clary, Paul O’Grady, Nigel Havers and Amanda Holden? A. I loved it! It was the first proper panto I have ever done, and to be part of the first pantomime at The Palladium in 30 years was incredible, especially alongside such variety veterans. The dresses were huge in the show for when Cinderella goes to the ball. I managed to complete the run with only one fall, which was onto my back, and the ballgown fell up around my head. I was at the front of the stage, unable to get up alone. I think the 2,000 audience members probably won’t forget that in a hurry!
Q. Have you toured before? A. I have never toured before! I am really looking forward to living out of a suitcase for a while! Q. Have you been to Norwich and do you have any links to the region? A. I have never been to Norwich, but I’m really excited to explore a little of it while I am there.
Funny Girl is at Norwich Theatre Royal from Monday 26th June to Saturday 1st July. For further information, call the box office on 01603 630000 or visit www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
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