Sheridan Smith forced to pull out of Funny Girl tour

Theatre-Goers have been left disappointed after it was announced Sheridan Smith will not appear in this week's run of Funny Girl at Bradford's Alhambra Theatre.
Sheridan Smith has won acclaim for her role in Funny Girl.  Picture by Johan Persson.Sheridan Smith has won acclaim for her role in Funny Girl.  Picture by Johan Persson.
Sheridan Smith has won acclaim for her role in Funny Girl. Picture by Johan Persson.

The actress has been forced to pull out of the touring production of the West End hit, which arrived in Yorkshire this week, after being diagnosed with mumps.

A statement issued by the theatre said: “Following test results, it is confirmed that Sheridan Smith has contracted mumps and on doctor’s advice will not be able to perform in Funny Girl at the Alhambra Theatre, Bradford this week. The producers and company wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming her back as soon as possible. This week, the role of Fanny Brice will be played by Natasha J Barnes who is currently sharing the role of Fanny Brice with Sheridan Smith on the UK Tour of Funny Girl.”

Natasha J Barnes returns to play Fanny Brice, a role she performed to critical acclaim as alternate to Sheridan Smith during the West End run.