Theatre News

Sheridan Smith takes leave of absence from Funny Girl

The actress will take some time out from the show due to stress and exhaustion

| London | London's West End |

12 May 2016

Sheridan Smith as Fanny Brice
© Marc Brenner

Producers have confirmed that Sheridan Smith will be taking a 2-4 week leave of absence from Funny Girl due to "stress and exhaustion".

The show has been in the headlines recently after a performance was cancelled early in the first act "due to technical difficulties" and Smith missing a spate of performances after the BAFTAs.

Producers said: "The entire team at Funny Girl is thinking of Sheridan, and know she is getting the rest and support she needs during this very difficult and stressful time. We will all miss her enormously and send her our love and best wishes – and we are looking forward to her return to the show in due course."

Natasha J Barnes will take over the role until Sheridan returns.

Regarding ticket refunds, Funny Girl tweeted:

If you have any concerns about your booking for #FunnyGirl please contact your point of sale for more info on their exchange & refund policy

— Funny Girl Musical (@FunnyGirl_UK) May 12, 2016

You can read our four star review of the production here.

Read the full statement below:

"The entire team at Funny Girl is thinking of Sheridan, and know she is getting the rest and support she needs during this very difficult and stressful time. We will all miss her enormously and send her our love and best wishes – and we are looking forward to her return to the show in due course.

"Meanwhile, we are thrilled to support the wonderful Natasha J Barnes who will be taking on the role of Fanny Brice until Sheridan’s return. Natasha has been covering Sheridan in this role since the run at the Menier Chocolate Factory and has received high praise from audiences on the occasions that she has appeared. We are all certain audiences will continue to love our amazing show."

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