Theatre Review: My Fair Lady, Bristol Hippodrome
SUMMARY
Rating: ★★★★
Running Dates: Wednesday 15th February - Saturday 23rd February
Where to see it: Bristol Hippodrome
Duration: 3 hours (including interval)
Keywords: Authentic, thought-provoking, comedic
REVIEW
Lerner & Loewe’s My Fair Lady has been infamous on stage and screen for many years. The performance embodies heart-felt emotion, interesting characters and a captivating story!
The musical features renowned theatre performers such as Michael D. Xavier and Lesley Garrett, combined with TV personalities, including Adam Woodyatt and John Middleton. Michael D. Xavier stars as Henry Higgins; from the moment Xavier sets foot on stage, his extensive credits, awards and nominations are self-evident. He brings electricity to the character of Professor Higgins and is able to portray vivacity, bigotry and muted loneliness simultaneously.
For Soap Opera fans, this performance is one to watch. Adam Woodyatt, in his portrayal of Alfred P. Doolittle, exemplifies his inner Ian Beale, giving the audience a glimpse of life for the London working class in the early 1900s. This character also provides the audience with comedic relief throughout the performance. In particular, Woodyatt gives an impressive performance of ‘Get Me to the Church on Time’, cultivating a minute-long applause.
Act One begins with a cold night on the streets of London. We are introduced to our protagonist, Eliza Doolittle, searching for punters to whom she can sell flowers. Eliza, a working-class girl with a strong Cockney accent, makes the acquaintance of Professor Higgins and the two begin to form an unlikely alliance. As the scenes unfold, the intricate set design is revealed which is surpassed only by the seamless way in which each set is redressed.
Act Two opens at the long-awaited Embassy Ball in which Eliza is to pass for a member of high society. In the second Act, the story explores important tropes such as women’s rights, poverty and austerity, and strained family dynamics. Nevertheless, the performance does not become overly sombre due to the presence of characters reflecting the audience’s voice and interspersed comedy.
Overall, the performance was an audible and visual treat. The leading cast and ensemble can do it all - singing, dancing, physical comedy, the lot! The production was intricate and detailed in set design and costume, combining the two in an intriguing use of silhouettes.
For fans of the 1964-film, this production is a must-see. Charlotte Kennedy, in her portrayal of Eliza Doolittle, is reflective of Audrey Hepburn in her performance and, in general, the performance brings 1913 London to life! Whilst this may not be suitable for young children, older teenagers through to beloved grandparents could be charmed by My Fair Lady.
The show is running until the 23rd of February so there is still plenty of time to grab your ticket!
Standout Quote or Moment: performance of ‘Get Me to the Church on Time’ or ‘Wouldn’t It Be Loverly’!
See If: you are on team Freddy or team Henry
Similar Plays: The Sound of Music, Oliver!, Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Last Impression: An immersive story which follows the development of likeable characters but unlikely friends
Written by Chelsea Peel
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