The Scera Shell will open its 2010 summer theater season with classic musical Funny Girl on June 10.
BYU stage events coordinator Jennifer Reed is making her premier as a director at Scera. Reed’s diverse professional theatrical resume spans back 20 years; she has experience as a performer, director, and stage manager.
“People my age know and love Funny Girl, but there’s a generation not as familiar with the story that I hope will come and love the show,” she said.
The plot follows Fanny Brice, comedienne and star in the early 20th century variety show Ziegfeld Follies. Brice was known as a magnificent but unglamorous talent.
“It was important that I got the perfect person for Fanny because she is in every scene,” Reed said. “She carries the show.” She chose local Bethany Simmons to play the role. “Well, with Fanny Brice, she has got a role of a lifetime. And I have to tell you, her singing will blow you away.”
The show includes classic powerhouse songs like “Don’t Rain on My Parade,” “People” and “I’m the Greatest Star.” The production numbers are typically larger-than-life, akin to the original splendor of Ziegfeld Follies.
“Funny Girl is rarely produced, because it is such a grand theatrical feat to tackle,” said Adam J. Robertson, Scera president and CEO. “But we have such abundant talent in the cast and on our creative and production teams to make it fantastic. If you haven’t ever seen this show, don’t miss it.”
MORE INFORMATION
When: June 10-21, on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: SCERA Shell Outdoor Theater, 699 S. State St. Orem
Tickets: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, students (with ID) and children. Reserved sections available.
Box office: In person at SCERA Center for the Arts, 745 S. State St. from 10-6 weekdays and noon-6 on Saturdays, by phone at 801-225-ARTS, online at www.SCERA.org or at the gate one hour prior to the performance.
Seating is on the grass, so patrons can bring a blanket or rent a chair for $1.
