SHE is the hugely talented Hampshire actress who is stealing the show after stepping into the shoes of leading lady Sheridan Smith.

Natasha Barnes was Miss Smith’s understudy in Funny Girl – but has been thrust into the West End spotlight following her colleague’s decision to take time off from the role.

In a success story worthy of a Hollywood movie, Natasha, 25, is proving an even bigger hit than the woman she has replaced.

After stepping in for the third night running, she was treated to a standing ovation at the Savoy Theatre in London – with members of the audience turning to social media to praise her outstanding ability.

Lindy Roberts said: “Such a moving performance, you brought me to tears, think this was one of the best shows I have ever seen.”

Andy Brydon added: “Fantastic show and understudy Natasha Barnes is brilliant. Who needs Sheridan Smith?”

Natasha’s sudden taste of stardom is set to continue, with Miss Smith expected to take at least four weeks off to recover from what the producers are describing as stress and exhaustion.

But her triumph has come as no surprise to staff at Ringwood School, where she was a student until 2008.

Praising her “incredible” acting ability the head of performing arts, Ian Hawkins, said: “Even from an early age it was obvious Natasha had outstanding talent.

“Her sensitivity and range, combined with her vocal prowess, makes her perfect to take on the role of Fanny Brice in Funny Girl.”

Natasha, whose parents still live in Ringwood, also spent 10 years appearing in productions staged by the Bournemouth-based Little Big Theatre School.

Michelle Guy, the school’s principal and co-founder, said: “Natasha was born to perform. She has an incredible voice and was always destined for something amazing.

“During her time with us she was totally focused and hungry for success. She didn’t let anything stand in her way, but was always an absolute joy to work with.”

Her roles included Anne Frank, the Jewish girl who kept a diary detailing her family’s attempt to hide from the Nazis during World War Two.

Reviewing her performance Daily Echo theatre critic Linda Kirkman wrote: “The central character is a feisty teenager who is hit hardest by her newly-restricted life. Her childish exuberance and burgeoning maturity are beautifully portrayed by the highly-talented Natasha Barnes.”

More recently Natasha has appeared on TV shows such as Doctors and Doc Martin.

But Funny Girl could prove to be her big break, with Miss Smith’s decision to withdraw from the production propelling her understudy to overnight stardom.

Last night the producers said: “We’re thrilled to support the wonderful Natasha Barnes, who will be taking on the role of Fanny Brice until Sheridan’s return.”

Natasha had feared that audiences would be left disappointed after arriving at the theatre to find the star of the show had been replaced by her stand-in.

She said: “I felt bad for them, but I had to put that aside and do the best that I can.”