Watch My Name Is Barbra

My Name Is Barbra is a 1965 music special starring Barbra Streisand, her first television special that aired on CBS. The special was directed by Robert Scheerer and written by Streisand and her then-boyfriend, Barry Dennen, both of whom were relatively unknown at the time. The show became a sensation, making Streisand an overnight star and launching her career as a singer and actress.

The special is divided into several segments, each of which showcases Streisand's versatility and range as a performer. In the opening number, Streisand walks through the streets of New York City singing the title song, "My Name Is Barbra," an ode to her newfound fame and success. From there, she performs a series of musical numbers, each with its own distinct style and genre.

One of the highlights of the special is a medley of songs from various Broadway musicals, including "Never Never Land" from Peter Pan and "Being Good Isn't Good Enough" from Hallelujah Baby!. Streisand demonstrates her vocal range and acting skills as she transitions effortlessly from one song to the next.

Another standout segment is a series of comedic skits, in which Streisand impersonates famous stage and screen actresses such as Katharine Hepburn, Ethel Merman, and Marilyn Monroe. She also performs a parody of Barbara Walters, mock-interviewing herself with a series of ridiculous questions and absurd claims.

Throughout the special, Streisand displays an unbridled passion for music and performing, and a willingness to take risks and experiment with different styles and genres. She sings in a variety of languages, including French, German, and Hebrew, and performs a selection of popular songs, such as "Cry Me a River" and "Lover Come Back to Me," as well as lesser-known tunes.

One of the most memorable segments of the show features Streisand singing "People," a powerful ballad from the musical Funny Girl, which would later become one of her signature songs. The performance is simple and understated, relying solely on Streisand's emotive vocals and the song's poignant lyrics.

The special also features several impressive production numbers, including a reimagining of the song "Yesterdays" as a ballet, and a grand finale in which Streisand performs a rousing rendition of "Happy Days Are Here Again" as a marching band plays behind her.

In addition to showcasing Streisand's remarkable talents as a performer, My Name Is Barbra is also notable for its cultural significance. At the time of its airing, Streisand was one of the few Jewish performers in the mainstream entertainment industry, and the special reflects her struggles with identity and belonging. Streisand incorporates Jewish themes and motifs throughout the show, such as lighting a menorah and singing a Hebrew prayer, suggesting a sense of pride in her heritage and a desire to connect with her audience on a deeper level.

Overall, My Name Is Barbra is an unforgettable piece of television history, showcasing the talents of a young star on the verge of greatness. The show is a testament to Streisand's remarkable abilities as a singer, actress, and comedian, and a testament to the power of music and performance to inspire, entertain, and move audiences.