Pygmalion

Wanneroo Repertory’s Pygmalion was a sumptuously presented production that was very warmly received by capacity audiences.

Jacob Turner made a promising directorial debut with this classic George Bernard Shaw play, with a production that looked great, with lovely multiple sets designed by Robert Usaraga, well designed lighting by Jacob Anderson, solid sound work from Daniel Toomath and Kim Elford and some notable costuming.

Setting this show in 1929 was great for visual effect, but it overlooks the huge social changes that occurred between the theatrical debut of this play in 1913 and the late 1920s - including the Great War and women’s suffrage in the UK. 

Leading actor Owen Phillips as Henry Higgins plays anger with great energy, and obviously has great skill, but I would have seen him directed with more light and shade. 

Emily Botje was a lovely Eliza Doolittle who grew from an awkward girl to a sophisticated, powerful woman before our eyes. 

Gino Cataldo provided solid support as Colonel Pickering, while Ursula Johnson was simply delightful, giving lovely depth to Mrs. Higgins.

Andrew Govey was a late-in-rehearsal replacement as Alfred Doolittle, who blended with the cast beautifully. Christine Smith was an efficient and likeable Mrs. Pearce. Cheerily Smith, Kaitlin Okelly and Mitchell Robinson formed a believable family as the Eynsford-Hills and Tamsin Clarke rounded out the cast nicely. Several crew members made cameo appearances in the opening scene.

Lovely to see a classic comedy, presented with obvious affection and enthusiasm.

Kimberley Shaw