Review: Pygmalion at Clwyd Theatr Cymru, Mold

Oct 15 2009 by Francesca Elliott, Chester Chronicle

PYGMALION/Anthony Hopkins Theatre, Clwyd Theatr Cymru, Mold, October 31

REVIEW/by FRANCESCA ELLIOTT

THE standard of Clwyd Theatr Cymru’s in-house productions is always high, and it’s latest outing, Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion, directed by Terry Hands, is no exception.

The popular tale of Eliza Doolittle’s rise from the gutter to a lady was enthusiastically received in its opening week at the Mold theatre, playing to full houses each night.

The strong cast features acting veterans such as Philip Bretherton as Professor Higgins, Robert Blythe as Colonel Pickering and Meg Wynn Owen as Mrs Higgins, but it was Hedydd Dylan as Eliza Doolittle who really stole the show.

Hedydd, who only graduated from drama school last year, shone as the outrageous Eliza, her early scenes as the poverty stricken flower girl providing some of the funniest in the show.

Unlike later adaptations of the play, such as the musicalMy Fair Lady, Pygmalion does not focus on romantic aspects of the character’s relationships, but more on class and gender tensions.

The play was funny and tender in turn, the acting was superb, the set and costumes colourful, and I really feel that I haven't enjoyed a play so much in months.

Pygmalion runs at the Clwyd Theatr Cymru until October 31.

Call the box office on 0845 330 3565 or book online for free at www.clwyd-theatr-cymru.co.uk