ACTRESS Natasha Barnes took Plymouth Theatre Royal by storm last week and received a standing ovation for her performance in musical comedy Funny Girl.

Miss Barnes offered a stunning portrayal as Brooklyn comedian Fanny Brice — whose tale of fame, love and laughter left a packed theatre standing and clapping in awe.

The actress not only had to follow the footsteps of superstar Barbara Streisand in the movie version of Funny Girl, but also on stage in those of one of the nation’s favourite actresses, Sheridan Smith.

However, with an exceptional vocal performance, great comic timing and the perfect connection with her audience, it was difficult to believe Miss Barnes was the show’s understudy as she was without doubt a star in her own right.

Funny Girl was a rollercoaster ride of tears and laughter. While Fanny’s stage persona was a riot, her beaming smile hid drama in her personal life, largely as a result of her tempestuous marriage to millionaire Nick Arnstein, who was perfectly cast by ex Pop Idol contestant Darius Campbell.

The musical presents snapshots of Fanny’s life, starting as an enthusiastic but ungainly teenager in Vaudeville, through to meeting the love of her life, their marriage and the eventual demise of their relationship as Fanny’s career soars, while Nick’s gambling lifestyle hits streak after streak of bad luck.

Don’t Rain on My Parade is one of the most notorious songs in musical theatre and you could feel the anticipation in the audience as the end of Act One approached but Miss Barnes did not disappoint — clear as crystal vocals, bursting with energy and passion and leaving you with the feeling that she meant every word.

The show also included the emotional ballad, People, which once again was performed with heartfelt emotion and sincerity.

Although these were the stand out songs, the rest of Jule Styne and Bob Merrill’s score was still entertaining and was executed beautifully by an outstanding orchestra.

Natasha Barnes was no doubt the greatest star but thankfully the whole cast matched up to her talents. A particular stand-out performer was Joshua Lay, who was exceptional in his role as Fanny’s dance teacher and best friend Eddy.

The whole cast were sensational, complete with a line of beautiful dancers, and all the showbiz sparkles, spangles and sequins that you would hope for, while the movement of props and scene changes were as slick as Nick Arnstein himself.

The talented ensemble offered extremely strong support to this already exceptional musical.