Last night, I typed up a long speech about the importance of critics. I decided that bashing Michael Riedle wouldn't help me plead my case--well not directly--so I deleted it. Basically, the way I see it, the purpose of a critic is to support shows that they believe audiences will enjoy. Unfortunately, critics and audiences have not seen eye to eye and some shows aren't getting the run that they deserve despite the enthusiasm of the audiences. Funny Girl is a show that I have grown up with--I know I am not the only one. It holds an importance place in the hearts of many many people and it is time for it to hit the Great White Way. If Gypsy can have a run in 2003, a City Center production in 2007 AND THEN REVIVE AGAIN in 2008 there is no valid argument as to why Funny Girl could not be included in an upcoming Broadway season. As for the second (but no less important) part of this cause: Hands down, Fanny must be played by Stephanie J. Block. Stephanie won the 2000 Robby Award for her portrayal as Fanny Brice in the Musical Theatre of Wichita/Downey CLO Cabrillo Musical Theatre production of Funny Girl. She is most well known for originating the roles of Liza Minnelli in The Boy From Oz and Grace O'Malley in the Pirate Queen. In addition, she was the very first Elphaba in the workshop of Wicked and then went on to perform the role in the first national tour as well as on Broadway. Stephanie is currently working on the upcoming musical 9 to 5. Stephanie has continually said that Funny Girl holds a place in her heart. I have the utmost faith that Stephanie would make this show into something that the generations to come will still love and appreciate. PRODUCERS--GIVE US WHAT WE WANT!