Review: Sidmouth Musical Theatre present My Fair Lady

After a lively musical introduction Eliza entered forming a striking silhouette, the outline of her costume, hat and flower basket unmistakable against the Covent Garden backdrop, and as the lights came up the Company gathered around the 'warmth' of a large brazier.

Staging was simple but effective with well-designed back-projection depicting the various scenes, and  furniture brought on as required by the efficient and well-dressed backstage crew, together with the cast. The red leather armchairs in Higgins’s study were particularly impressive.

Vicky Evans as Eliza quicky established the character of the Cockney flower-seller, with excellent expression throughout she 'whined and snivelled' profusely, sang beautifully  and certainly 'got it' making a superb transition into a lady fit for 'high society'.

Playing the misogynistic Henry Higgins, Nigel Broome was just right, debonair but pompous; he strutted around  showing no consideration for Eliza’s feelings until admitting finally that he did miss having her around.

Martin J Kingston was just the perfect foil as Colonel Pickering; the moment on the telephone when he contacted an old 'chum' at the Home Office after 30 years was priceless!

Mark Sanders worked his socks off as Alfred Doolittle, earnest but really just wanting to enjoy a drink down the pub with his 'mates'.

Reprising the role of Henry’s mother Sandria Stewart gave a 'spot-on' performance showing distinctly her disapproval of his behaviour, and Anita Tipping’s expressions as his housekeeper quietly conveyed her feelings admirably.

Vicki Campbell made her mark as Mrs Eynsford-Hill, Mike Shepherd-Royal sang well and was an endearing Freddie, and Steve Vernon a convincing Hungarian, all three joining the very strong, energetic and supportive chorus in between.

Sensitively and well directed by David Finlay, an excellent orchestra with Nick Lawrence as MD early on, great choreography from Vicky Evans, fantastic costumes, with 'absolutely fabulous' hats, this stunning production is still playing near a 'street where you live' until Saturday, April 15 – not to be missed!