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In pictures: Sheridan Smith's understudy Natasha J Barnes takes centre stage

Natasha J Barnes will be filling in the role of Fanny Brice in ”Funny Girl” while Sheridan Smith takes a leave of absence

Daisy Bowie-Sell
London London's West End

Natasha J Barnes has begun her 2-4 week stint onstage as Fanny Brice in Funny Girl after it was announced that Sheridan Smith would be taking a break from the role.

Barnes will star as the performer Fanny Brice in the production, which is currently running at the Savoy Theatre.

Smith pulled out of the lead role this week, with producers announcing that she needs rest and support during a "stressful time".

Barnes has been understudy for Smith since the run at the Menier Chocolate Factory.

The show has been in the news recently, with one of the performances being cancelled in the first act "due to technical difficulties".

Funny Girl runs at the Savoy Theatre until 8 October 2016.