My Fair Lady

Queensland Musical Theatre's 40th anniversary production of My Fair Lady at Twelfth Night Theatre was a triumph of classic musical theatre, delighting the audience with its timeless charm and outstanding performances. Under the expert direction of Deian Ping, with musical direction by Julie Whiting and choreography by Bec Swain, this rendition of Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe's beloved musical soared.

Kira Lang shone as Eliza Doolittle, capturing the essence of the feisty Cockney flower girl who transforms into a poised lady. Her vocal performance was flawless, and she brought great emotional depth to her iconic songs. Lang's nuanced acting and impeccable accent work made her a joy to watch, seamlessly portraying Eliza's evolution.

James Lennox delivered a compelling Henry Higgins, embodying the character's arrogant superiority. His strong vocal performances in the songs and chemistry with Lang was palpable, adding enjoyable layers to their dynamic.

David McLaughlin's Colonel Pickering was a standout, bringing buckets of humour and warmth to the role. His excellent comedic timing and physicality provided a perfect counterbalance to Lennox's Higgins.

Lachlan Dodd as Freddy Eynsford-Hill added a touch of vulnerability and comedic flair along with beautiful vocals in "On the Street Where You Live." Jordan Ross as Alfred P. Doolittle commanded the stage with his larger-than-life presence and comedic timing, making him a crowd favourite.

Supporting performances were equally strong, with Kristie Rabbitt delivering a believable and engaging Mrs. Pearce and Fiona Buchanan bringing delightful humanity to Mrs. Higgins. Reece Ratcliffe (Zoltan Karpathy/ensemble) displayed charisma and skill, enhancing the production's vibrant energy.

Director Deian Ping's adept handling of the large cast of over 40 performers was commendable, drawing out stellar performances across the board. Choreographer Bec Swain's routines were intricate and executed with precision, showcasing the ensemble's talent. Julie Whiting's musical direction ensured that both the live band and singers hit all the right notes, contributing to the show's overall excellence.

The production did encounter some technical hiccups on opening night, with occasional microphone issues affecting volume levels. However, the professionalism and quality of the cast ensured these did not detract significantly from the performance.

Visually, the show was a feast for the eyes. The costumes, particularly during the Ascot race day scene, were sumptuous and reminiscent of the 1964 film. The simple and adaptable set design allowed the choreography and performances to take centre stage, maintaining the production's focus on the talent and story.

Queensland Musical Theatre’s My Fair Lady is a testament to the enduring appeal of Lerner and Loewe's classic, brought to life by a dedicated and talented team. This production captures the heart and soul of the original, delivering a 'lover-ly' experience that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

Kitty Goodall