Barbra Streisand on TV: Funny Girl to Funny Lady
Broadcast on ABC, March 9, 1975

Performed at Washington, D.C.'s famed Kennedy Center, the television special "From Funny Girl to Funny Lady" was half live and half taped ... and all Barbra!

The entire evening benefited the Special Olympics. President Gerald Ford attended.

The taped part was a cute interview with host Dick Cavett. Lounging in theater seats, Barbra and Dick talked about "Funny Lady" and clips from the film were shown, including a nicely edited "music video" of Streisand romantic film clips to the song "Fine and Dandy."

Next came the live special. Barbra, introduced by Dick Cavett, took the Kennedy Center stage and sang an introspective version of "The Way We Were". The orchestra behind her was conducted by longtime musical associate Peter Matz. After she finished the song, Barbra reminded the audience that the show was live: "If you applaud too much we'll run out of time, this is live, live."

Next, an electrifying version of "Don't Rain On My Parade" and an intimate "My Man".

Barbra introduced costar James Caan, told a few "Godfather" jokes, then sang "I Like Him/Paper Moon" with Caan

Barbra left the stage to change costumes while James Caan set the scene for Barbra's last number ... her only live performance of "How Lucky Can You Get." Barbra strode out on stage looking sleek and gorgeous with her long hair and trim bod. Her voice was flawless and the song utilized the "pop" orchestration (with the guitar ending - much like the bonus single on the remastered Arista CD.)

Listen to the live version of "How Lucky":

After the commercial, Barbra received a special award from Mohammed Ali. The producers gave her the "wrap-up" cue and Barbra joked that it was a live show and they were out of time.

[All screen captures on this page courtesy of Mark Boyce and Rafe Chase.]

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