My Fair Lady

Some interesting ideas had been put into the production of this iconic show and they certainly made a refreshing change to it.

Richard Poynton (Higgins) got away from the stereotypical Richard Harris rendition in that he did much more singing in his songs showing what a pleasing singing voice he has. Also, his diction was impeccable. Vickie Beck’s diction as Eliza was also faultless and she has an excellent singing voice which she used to good effect in this part. She moved seamlessly from the strident early songs to the rounded tones necessary when she had learnt to ‘speak properly’ like a lady. James Pugh (Pickering) extracted a lot of humour from his interpretation of the bumbling ex-military man. Chris Stanley (Doolittle) had the right vocal qualities for this part and his ensemble work with Dan Anketell (Harry) and Patrick Jervis (Jamie) was slick and full of fun. Ben Foulds showed what a talented performer he is in the part of Freddie Eynsford-Hill and Julie Mallaband was a delight as Mrs. Higgins. There was strong support from Pauline Rainsford (Mrs. Eynsford-Hill), Sue Morgan (Mrs. Pearce) and Phil Bourn (Karparthy). All the named principals made invaluable contributions and the ensemble work and full chorus numbers were confident.

The choreography was good and well executed by principals and chorus. There was a well-lit and impressive set which was quickly and quietly manipulated by the stage crew. The balance in sound between the ‘pit’ and stage meant that the performers could be easily heard.

I did feel, however, that the cockneys were a bit too clean and ‘posh’ which meant that the difference between them and the gentry was not very distinct.  

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.