Fanny Brice, the comedienne and songstress immortalized by Barbra Streisand in “Funny Girl,” would have been 125 years old today.
The story of how Jewish lower East Sider Fanny Brice (originally Fania Borach) beat out French singer Mistinguett to win a prime part in the Ziegfeld follies.
Jews are hardly new to vaudeville. But it is striking how many Jews continue to specialize in vaudeville and variety acts — from clowns to contortionists, jugglers to jesters.
What do Jewish women love about Barbra Streisand in ‘Funny Girl’? Local girl endures tragedy to come out on top. It feels even better because she’s one of us.
The role that launched Barbra Streisand has been recast — and it didn’t go to the Jewish heir apparent.