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Meet Fanny Mendelssohn. You'll probably know of her younger brother Felix, from nineteenth-century smash hits like 'The Wedding March'. He was such a huge star that Queen Victoria requested a private concert, during which she sang her favorite of his compositions, a song called 'Italien'.
The only problem is, that particular piece was actually composed by Fanny, though it was published under her brother's name.
When Fanny intercepts the letter inviting Felix to play for the queen, she decides to hide it away, don her brother's clothes, and take his place at the palace…
Calum Finlay's play Fanny is a joyful and irreverent comedy celebrating music, family and – at last – the work of a composer overlooked because of her sex. It opened at the Watermill Theatre, Newbury, in 2024.
“A wonderfully witty and well-informed delight, earthy and elegant by turn... catch this while you can – a warm, funny, life-enhancing and eye-opening musical comedy.” —WhatsOnStage
“A riotous, irreverent yet enthralling play... brisk and light-hearted with plenty of laughs... hilarious.” —Broadway World
“A pithily written riot of a good time... Finlay's writing is stuffed with musical innuendos and quips, and full of witty wordplay.” —The Stage
“Witty and fast-paced... a fun-packed outing.” —Observer
“A fast-paced play full of fun, wit, farcical physical theatre and wonderful performances... hugely enjoyable.” —British Theatre Guide