first tv specials offered elaborate box set barbra streisand television specials released last november disc released separately want fork dollars five specials investment indeed best bunch fact streisand purest eager impress succeeds brilliantly key component legend signed longterm contract cbs produce hourlong variety shows almost extinct format nowadays streisand  cbs special first broadcast april  point career notoriety limited handful bestselling albums dazzling tv appearances variety talk shows successful broadway run funny girlbr br filmed crisp blackandwhite program divided three distinct parts creative transitional use im late disneys alice wonderland first segment cleverly shows growing childhood numbers diverse make believe im five opening comic monologue pearl istanbul second part moves location manhattans chic bergdorf goodmans elegantly costumed series glamorous outfits singing depressionera songs like ive got plenty nuthin the best things life free comic irony back basics third segment straightahead concert opens torchy version when sun comes out includes funny girl medley ends classic melancholic take happy days again ending credits also included brief introduction taped  special first released vhs know streisand pricey concert tickets political fundraising genuine eyeopener revered now