A scene from "My Fair Lady" which will be showing at the Playhouse Opera Theatre from March 8 -16.
Image: Supplied.
After months of eager anticipation, theatregoers in Durban will finally have the opportunity to experience the enchanting musical production of "My Fair Lady".
Scheduled to grace the stage at the Playhouse Opera Theatre from Saturday, March 8 to 16, this iconic production has already captured the hearts of audiences in Cape Town and Johannesburg, with several sold out performances.
If you haven't secured your ticket yet, you better act fast, because according to Linda Bukhosini, The Playhouse Company’s chief executive and artistic director, several performances have already been sold out.
Directed by the talented Steven Stead with musical direction by Kevin Kraak, this adaptation of the classic story, an inspired retelling of George Bernard Shaw’s "Pygmalion", follows the spirited journey of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl whose life transforms under the watchful eye of the imposing Professor Henry Higgins.
As Eliza is taught to shed her humble origins and enter the refined world of Edwardian London, audiences can expect to be serenaded by a repertoire of beloved songs including “I Could Have Danced All Night”, “Get Me to the Church on Time”, “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly”, “I’m Just An Ordinary Man”, “On the Street Where You Live”, “Show Me”, “The Rain in Spain” and “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face".
This thrilling production boasts an extraordinary cast of South Africa’s finest stage talents.
Leah Mari shines as Eliza Doolittle, alongside Craig Urbani in the role of Professor Henry Higgins. The impressive ensemble includes Graham Hopkins as Colonel Pickering, Mark Richardson as Doolittle, Sandi Dlangalala as Freddy Eynsford-Hill, Adrienne Pearce as Mrs Higgins, Namhla Tshuka as Mrs Eynsford-Hill, Ryan Flynn as Harry, Gareth Meijsen as Jamie and Megan Spencer as Mrs Pearce.
Leah Mari alongside other cast members from the musical, "My Fair Lady".
Image: Supplied.
Each member of the cast brings a unique energy and depth to the beloved story, promising a dynamic and irresistible theatrical experience.
Spencer reflects on the themes presented in the musical, emphasising the strength and empowerment of its female characters.
"It is about humanity at the end but mostly about the female empowerment and the female strength which transforms the males in this show."
She added: "Audiences should book tickets for the show because of Craig Urbani who is super hot, joking! It is suitable for everyone in the family. It just takes your heart and breaks it a part and then puts it back together.
Meanwhile, Urbani seems to think that there is quite a bit masculine energy in the production.
"We've got a fantastic cast and quite a masculine energy in the company which isn't always. We've got some older dudes like myself and Mark Richardson who is fantastic. then we've got Graham Hopkins who is very refined and such a gentleman, but he's got a glint in his eye.
"Gareth and Ryan are such a wonderful pair, always up to no good ... There is also choreographer, Duane Alexander who captures the mood and pays homage to the period, while creating and inventing new ways of doing it. It's going to be fantastic, so don't be fool, make sure you get your tickets to come see 'My Fair Lady', do it, do it now," said Urbani.
The show's choreographer, Duane Alexander, faces the exciting challenge of coordinating a cast of 36. He acknowledges the complexity of large production numbers, particularly with "Get Me to the Church on Time:, which is expected to be a standout spectacle.
"One of the biggest production number's is 'Get Me to the Church on Time'. There is just so many element, so many moving parts. Audiences can look forward to a fantastic spectacle, big and fabulous and opulent. There is so much visual energy, but it's got this really beautiful story at its heart. A feast for the eyes."
Cast of "My Fair Lady".
Image: Supplied.
With a fusion of splendid choreography, richly detailed costumes and artistry by Greg King and a narrative that resonates with audiences of all ages, "My Fair Lady" is set to be landmark event on Durban’s cultural calendar.
The legendary original production won 6 Tony Awards including Best Musical and ran for 2,717 performances making it the longest-running musical in Broadway history.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this timeless tale that continues to captivate hearts around the world.
Where: The Playhouse Opera Theatre, Durban central.
When: Saturday, March 8 to 16.
Cost: Tickets are R150 to R250 and can be purchased through Webtickets.