Pygmalion explores the elements of social standing

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GEROGE NEWS - Theatre lovers have another chance this coming weekend to catch George Bernard Shaw's timeless classic, Pygmalion (1912), at the George Arts Theatre. Two evening performances await on Friday and Saturday, 19 and 20 July, with a matinee on Saturday 20 July at 13:00.

GALLERY - Pygmalion at the Arts Theatre

Director and producer Chrisma Theron's presentation of this 112-year-old play is both brilliant and funny. Playing the lead role of Eliza Doolittle, Theron manages to bring Shaw's work to life. She owns the stage, acting alongside her husband Louwrens Theron in the role of the linguist specialist, Professor Henry Higgins.

The play is thought-provoking and explores the concept of class and identity, through the use of language.

The audience witnesses Eliza Doolittle's social development from a flower girl into a true lady, through the teachings of the professor, who is by most standards perceived to be the more sophisticated individual.

It leaves the audience with a very real question: what is the real difference between a flower girl and a lady? And, who is the ignorant brute in this equation?

Perhaps the truth of the matter unfolds in Eliza's words to Colonel Pickering, played by Jarrett Lubbe: "You see, really and truly, the difference between a lady and a flower girl is not how she behaves, but how she is treated.

"I shall always be a flower girl to Professor Higgins, because he always treats me as a flower girl, and always will; but I know I can be a lady to you, because you always treat me as a lady, and always will."

The cast of 10 managed to enthral a modern audience, keeping the style of the period intact. Tickets cost R130 (adults) and R100 (u.18) and are available at Webtickets or any Pick n Pay. Please note that the tickets are for unreserved seating.

Chrisma Theron as Eliza Doolittle (middle) entertains guests at the home of the professor's mother, Mrs Higgins, (Ilze Tulleken) (back), who is also the assistant director of the play. With them are Henry Higgins (left) (Louwrens Theron), Mrs Eynsford-Hill (Anastasia du Toit) and Clara Eynsford-Hill (Annerike van Eeden). Photos: Michelle Pienaar