The musical is based on the comic Fanny Brice, whose life was adapted into the 1968 film starring Barbra Streisand. Streisand subsequently won an Oscar that year for her performance in the film “Funny Girl,” which follows Fanny Brice and how she became “the greatest star.”

The musical is set in the 1900s, and the set design reflects the characteristics of the decade. By transporting the audience to the past, the set designers help the story progress easily. Lighting also plays its part in making sure Fanny Brice shines bright when hitting those story-defining notes.

The show opens with the overture, played beautifully by the live orchestra, which continues throughout the musical. Hannah Shankman, who plays Fanny Brice, is wonderful in the role and keeps the audience laughing. She embodies the essence of Fanny Brice along with her love interest, who is played by  Stephen Mark Lukas.

Fanny (Hannah Shankman) moves from her small-town theater to the Zigfiled Follies to fulfill her dream of being a star with the help of Eddie Ryan (Izaiah Montaque Harris), who demonstrates his fantastic tap dancing skills and strong voice. She has run-ins with Mr. Nick Arnstein (Stephen Mark Lukas) continuously. After various flirtatious interactions between the two, they begin a relationship.

Along with the stars, the ensemble hits every mark and every note, staying consistent with the show’s quality. Ensemble routines like “Rat-Tat-Tat-Tat” stick in the mind long after the show ends.

Hits from the musicals, including “People” and “You Are Woman, I Am Man,” showcase the growth of Fanny and Mr. Arnstein's relationship. The two have to balance their professional and personal lives. It becomes hard, but they persist

 Shankman’s rendition of “Don’t Rain on My Parade” is performed with such energy that it leads into the intermission, leaving the audience excited for the second act. The audience witnesses the couple’s marriage; like any relationship, they face challenges. Like any funny girl, Fanny tries to laugh it off and make the best of the situation, attempting to fix the problems that trouble her marriage.

Throughout the musical, she faces many truths about herself and her husband. In these moments of realization, Fanny’s costumes and the ensembles are colorful and vibrant, reflecting how she matures throughout her life. After some time and realizing her life, she decides to keep being the star she was born to be, reprising “ Don’t Rain on My Parade.” The show concludes with a dazzling finale, leaving the audience in a standing ovation for the stunning performers.

You can witness “Funny Girl” until Oct. 19 by obtaining tickets here.