Taking to the Dolman stage this week, is the Newport playgoers society production of Pygmalion.
Professor Higgins is the Pygmalion of his times, sculpting the perfect woman, or in this case transforming Eliza Doolittle from the gutter to a duchess, to often hilarious effect.
The play, which found enduring popularity thanks to its musical version My Fair Lady, was originally a way for George Bernard Shaw to address the unfairness of capitalist society. These issues remain current and still have resonance and can evoke sympathy with today’s audience.
Rachel Fenwick as Eliza and Steve Drowley as Professor Higgins stole the show with unfaltering delivery and enthusiasm. But Claudia Barnes as housekeeper Mrs Pearce, is worth a mention for her comic timing alone.
The simple but effective set design and sophisticated costumes made for a slick production and Bernard Shaw’s wit was done justice with a wide array of very convincing accents.
As one audience member commented, the end was a little “flat” and abrupt but overall, a very worthy production with some stand-out impressive performances in the lead roles.
Performances until June 14. Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.
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