So several months ago, I did a blog talking about several musicals that are due for Broadway revivals. Among the eight musicals I’ve mentioned was Alan Jay Lerner & Frederick Lowe’s 1956 classic, My Fair Lady. A show that hasn’t been seen on Broadway since the last revival in 1994. There had been talk of the Nederlander organization wanting to produce a revival back in 2013 with director Bartlett Sher (South Pacific, The King & I, Fiddler on the Roof) at the helm, but never materialized. Today, it was announced that Lincoln Center Theater (in association with the Nederlanders) will be producing a brand new production in the spring of next year.
LCT’s artistic director Andre Bishop has stated the following: “It’s a show of great delight and great sophistication, and I love the idea that at this particular time, when people are not always precise in the way they speak or write, here’s this show that is about speaking. Bart has this very interesting ability to zero in on the themes of an old musical that seem to apply to today. He has his own spin, yet clearly honors the original intention, which is why people like him so much.” I must say that having seen Bartlett Sher’s productions of South Pacific and Fiddler on the Roof, I think this is a perfect match between director and material.
No casting has been announced yet, though it should be interesting to see who will star in the coveted roles of Eliza Doolittle and Henry Higgins. Colin Firth has been mentioned as a possible choice for Higgins, which sounds like a perfect idea. Not only would he be a big draw to the general public, but I think he could also play the role very well (especially since Henry Higgins isn't necessarily required to be played by a trained singer).
So what do you think of the news of My Fair Lady coming back to Broadway next season? Who are your choices for Eliza Doolittle and Henry Higgins?
LCT’s artistic director Andre Bishop has stated the following: “It’s a show of great delight and great sophistication, and I love the idea that at this particular time, when people are not always precise in the way they speak or write, here’s this show that is about speaking. Bart has this very interesting ability to zero in on the themes of an old musical that seem to apply to today. He has his own spin, yet clearly honors the original intention, which is why people like him so much.” I must say that having seen Bartlett Sher’s productions of South Pacific and Fiddler on the Roof, I think this is a perfect match between director and material.
No casting has been announced yet, though it should be interesting to see who will star in the coveted roles of Eliza Doolittle and Henry Higgins. Colin Firth has been mentioned as a possible choice for Higgins, which sounds like a perfect idea. Not only would he be a big draw to the general public, but I think he could also play the role very well (especially since Henry Higgins isn't necessarily required to be played by a trained singer).
So what do you think of the news of My Fair Lady coming back to Broadway next season? Who are your choices for Eliza Doolittle and Henry Higgins?