My Fair Lady

I can only imagine the challenges of staging an outdoor performance: building a stage from scratch, arranging complex lighting, setting up raked audience seating, to even providing the portaloos. Yet, on a lovely summer’s  evening, everything was beautifully organised for this iconic musical, still loved by amateur societies and audiences alike. The programme notes offered a fascinating insight into George Bernard Shaw’s connection with Eynsford, reflected in naming  the character of Freddie and his mother as Eynsford-Hill.

The stage area was well planned and spacious, which was necessary for such a large cast. A central raised platform with steps at the back served as Professor Higgins’ study. I was impressed by the way the scenery was changed behind the stage, with individual pieces simply turned around. The backstage crew carried out their tasks swiftly and competently. As darkness fell, the lighting came into effect and at times the trees in the background were illuminated, creating a striking atmosphere. My only quibble was with the small screen above the stage used for subtitles. It was an excellent idea, but when certain spotlights came on, they shone onto the screen and made the subtitles difficult to read. Costumes were excellent and right for the period, although one small detail seemed out of place: the ‘on duty’ policeman entered with his helmet under his arm and an open-neck shirt! The 17 piece orchestra was expertly led by Lynda Newton and blended well with the ensemble singing and the soloists. Choreography by Heidi Phillpott was well thought out  for this stage area  and to include everyone in this large cast who were well disciplined  and all looked to be thoroughly enjoying themselves.

Ros Killpack was stunning as Eliza Doolittle, bringing great stage presence and a lovely singing voice. She worked well with Benjamin Newton, who gave an impeccable performance as Henry Higgins. Michael Barker gave a strong characterisation as Colonel Pickering, while David Bacon was entertaining and energetic throughout as the lovable rogue Alfred Doolittle. Callum McFarland was ideal as Freddy Eynsford-Hill, with a lovely singing voice and Lorraine Slipper was perfectly suited to the role of Mrs Pearce. Ferne Haxby as Mrs Higgins, Sally-Ann O’Callaghan as Mrs Eynsford-Hill, and many others who cannot all be mentioned individually, made the most of their cameo roles.

An outdoor production such as this involves great effort by a lot of people. Director Kirstie McMillan must  be a glutton for punishment as this is her second production ‘en plein air’ but she must be so proud of this great team effort. 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.