2025 - FUNNY GIRL

Director: Julia Stevens

Musical Director: Jamie Cordell

Choreographer: Lindsay Swift

Get ready as ESPA brings the legendary story of Funny Girl to Chequer Mead for the very first time! Step back into the glamorous world of the early 20th century, where Fanny Brice, a young Jewish girl from New York, defies all expectations and becomes one of the biggest stars of her time. With her quick wit, incredible talent, and unstoppable spirit, Fanny rises from the chorus line to the bright lights of the Ziegfeld Follies, capturing hearts along the way.

But it’s not all smooth sailing - Fanny’s love life is as dramatic as her career. Her whirlwind romance with the dashing but troubled gambler Nick Arnstein is filled with passion, heartbreak, and unforgettable moments. As Fanny’s star continues to rise, will her love story survive the pressures of fame?

Featuring show-stopping numbers like People, Don’t Rain on My Parade, and I’m the Greatest Star, Funny Girl is packed with the songs that made musical theatre history. This is a dazzling, heartwarming story of dreams, love, and the price of fame that you won’t want to miss!

We are delighted to reveal the cast of Funny Girl! There's still time to join the fun. Dancers of all abilities are welcome to be part of our Dancers / Ensemble. To find out more or apply, email us at admin@espaproductions.org. Don't miss your chance to shine!

Cast List

Fanny Brice:
Lily Porter

Nick Arnstein:
Ben Hopkins

Mrs Brice:
Vanessa Chambers

Mrs Strakosh:
Jill Day

Mrs Meeker:
Clare McFadden

Eddie Ryan:
Matt Barnett

Florenz Ziegfeld:
Francis Radford

Tom Keeney:
Mark Nicholson

Emma:
Saskia Leach

Jenny:
Chloe Roberts

Ziegfeld Tenor:
Edwin Lawrence

Named Dancers

Vera:
Hannah Perkins

Cathy:
Eloise Hogben

Jody:
Katie Leitch

Bubbles:
Ruth Cheek

Polly:
Steph Shaw

Maude:
Sarah Davis

Show Girl:
Laura Haeems

Show Girl:
Vicki Thomas

Character Dancers

Amelia Hulbert

Ethan Harrington-Benton

Joe Halligan

Kit Kinsella

Meg Richards

Nia Harrington-Benton

Tamzin Kerslake

Tayla Evans

Ensemble

John, Stage Manager:
Jamie McFadden

Piano Player:
Tim Hatt

Amelia Laing

Andy Cheek

Caitlin Florek-Cafferkey

Jacey Woodwards

Philippa Moyle

Rebecca Crossingham

Brandon Arnold