Review: MY FAIR LADY at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre

It has been 20 years since Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre last produced My Fair Lady. The classic musical is back and on stage now until May 14th. It's the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young woman with little money and less class. She becomes the student of a phonetician who is convinced he can turn her into a lady.

David Schmittou is perfectly cast as Professor Henry Higgins. He's callous and dismissive and completely oblivious to his moments of cruelty. He nails the role of a man full of knowledge, but lacking any empathy. Kimberly Doreen Burns plays Eliza and her voice is captivating in numbers like, "Wouldn't It Be Loverly" and "I Could Have Danced All Night". Eliza's transformation from street urchin to society darling is entertaining to watch.

One of the absolute highlights of the show is the costume design work by Jimm Halliday. Everything from the tailored men's suits to Eliza's layers of rags is just right, but the day at the Ascot races is on a whole different level. The entire ensemble is decked out in black and white with towering hats and elaborate details. The effect is breathtaking.

The ending of the show is a problematic. By the time the audience makes it to the final scene it's hard to root for the conclusion we receive. That's an issue with the musical itself, not this production, but it's one that gives you pause.

Don't Miss the Show Performances: The show runs until May 14. Doors open for evening performances at 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The buffet is served from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. For Wednesday matinees doors open at 11:30 a.m. and the buffet is served from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The show begins at 1 p.m. For Sunday matinees doors open at 12 p.m. and the buffet is served from 12:15 to 1 p.m. The show begins at 1:30 p.m.

Tickets: To purchase tickets call (317) 872-9664 between 10 a.m. and 7 p.M. Prices range from $42.50 to $67.50 and include the show, tax, coffee, tea and the buffet.