Interview with Director of My Fair Lady
We sat down and put a few questions to Andy Ferarra, the director of our upcoming presentation of My Fair Lady. His answers really shine a light on the qualities that make the classic musical such an extraordinary and enduring story.
Why My Fair Lady?
At its core, My Fair Lady is the classic story of acceptance. It’s about seeing people for who they are versus who we think they should be. I think that theme is just as relevant today as it was when the show first came to the stage – perhaps even more so in this social media-obsessed age of instantaneous judgement and reaction. My Fair Lady reminds us that we really can’t judge a book by its cover. We have to look deeper to get to know the person within before we cast judgement on who they are or what their potential in life may be. But besides the deeper social messages, My Fair Lady is just a great musical – with an amazing story, entertaining characters and wonderful music and dancing. It’s pure theater magic!
Do you draw inspiration from the film? Any specifics?
The movie was a wonderful version of the musical, but it’s not the be-all, end-all in terms of telling this story. You just can’t compare a movie to actually seeing the relationship between Eliza and Henry play out in front of you live on stage and sharing in that journey in an intimate theater setting.
Why do you think so many people love this story?
As I mentioned, the theme of acceptance and loving someone for who they are versus whom we want them to be is pretty universal. The basic story of looking beyond first impressions is really something that everyone can relate to. And of course, the character of Eliza is so likeable – you can’t help but root for her! And of course, you ultimately want to see Henry fall in love with Eliza in spite of himself and his ego-centric views on culture and society. Combine that with an immensely popular score, fun characters, and innovative staging, and it’s hard for people not to love this story.
Are there any unique twists to your production? Differences in story, characters, setting, props, etc?
No, the original story is so strong and has stood the test of time – why change it? Like they say, “if it ain’t broke…”
What can you tell us about the cast of this production?
The cast of 20+ performers is comprised of professional Los Angeles-based actors who are all immensely versatile. Our two leads hail from England. This will be the first visit to Alaska for the majority of the cast and they are beyond excited to see this beautiful part of the world!
How did you get into theatre and musicals?
I’ve been doing theater since I was in elementary school and have always had a special affinity for musicals. From performing in theme parks when I was a teenager to appearing on Broadway and directing productions for television, I’ve had a pretty broad and varied career in musicals. It’s definitely my favorite genre to direct as well as to watch as an audience member.
When was your first trip to Alaska? Did you ever think you would be back?
I first came to Alaska in the mid-nineties as part of the cast for the 35th anniversary tour of A Chorus Line. In fact, the poster for that production still hangs in the hallway of the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts to this day (and I can still point out my signature on it!). I’ve been back to Anchorage several times since then, including last year when I directed Les Miserables for the Anchorage Concert Association. I’m always happy to come to Alaska!
You’re traveled across the country performing and directing, what makes Alaska (Anchorage) audiences different?
I think Anchorage audiences are some of the warmest and most gracious I’ve done shows for. I always feel like there’s an instant bond between our performers and the audience in Anchorage. It’s like they’re rooting for the cast and are so open to having a memorable theater experience.
What is your favorite Broadway musical? What is your favorite show to direct? What is your dream acting role?
My favorite recent Broadway musical is Jersey Boys. I have two favorite shows that I’ve directed – RENT and Les Miserables. Both feature complex, multi-layered stories and characters and both are operatic in nature; all of which presents some unique challenges for any director. In terms of acting, I think I’d be a great P.T. Barnum in the musical Barnum!
What is the best part / hardest part of being a director of musicals?
There’re a lot of moving parts in any musical production and it can be challenging to keep track of them all. Sometimes I feel like I’m more traffic cop than director! But I love seeing it all come together – to have a vision and to be a part of a team with the ultimate goal of unifying a group of talented performers to help everyone be their best. It’s immensely satisfying to bring a compelling and entertaining story to an audience.
Why is My Fair Lady still relevant today?
As I mentioned, the overall themes of My Fair Lady (of acceptance and loving someone for who they really are) are pretty universal. And the music and story are timeless!
What are some fun things you’ve been able to do on your visits to Alaska?
I’ve seen a lot of the local sights and done some amazing hikes. I love the fact that I’ve seen moose walking around the streets on at least two visits here (that’s definitely in my fantasy version of Alaska!). I also found this great little store in Wasilla last year called Alaska Picker. I love vintage neon signs and purchased an old “Motel” sign there, which I shipped back to Los Angeles. It’s currently mounted in my backyard. I still have room for another one, so if anyone knows where to find some good vintage neon signs in Alaska, let me know!
What are challenges in staging a show that has been a popular movie?
It can be hard to get the image of Audrey Hepburn as Eliza or the memory of Rex Harrison’s performance as Henry Higgins out of your head. But I think our two leads, and the entire cast of My Fair Lady, are going to blow people away!