Dear Liar: A Play on Pygmalion's Original Eliza
In a captivating exploration of the past, 'Dear Liar' brings to life a fascinating encounter between a young Jerome Kilty and the legendary playwright George Bernard Shaw during World War II. Kilty, who would later become an actor and playwright, found himself doorstepping the octogenarian Shaw in London. Despite his age, Shaw warmly welcomed Kilty, and this meeting sparked a creative journey that would lead to Kilty's greatest success.
The play focuses on the intense correspondence between Shaw and Mrs. Patrick Campbell, the original Eliza in Pygmalion. While Campbell's brilliance is now a fading memory, Shaw's plays continue to struggle for relevance. So, why revisit this ancient sparring match? The answer lies in the exceptional performances of Rachel Pickup and Alan Turkington, who bring these two larger-than-life personalities to life on stage.
Act I delves into the challenges of staging Pygmalion. The negotiations between Shaw and Campbell are filled with passion and flirtation. Their quick tempers often lead to clashes, with Shaw demanding his way and Campbell refusing to be a 'pretty slut'. The rehearsals face obstacles due to Campbell's Cockney accent and Shaw's harsh direction, but ultimately, the show goes on.
As the play progresses, the relationship between Shaw and Campbell takes a turn. They attempt to extract personal gain from their collaboration, whether through plays or memoirs. Shaw's curiosity leads him to witness his mother's cremation, while his pacifism is tested when Campbell loses a son to the war. These personal moments add depth to the story.
However, a modern interpretation might approach this material differently. Scholars now view Campbell as a psychologically astute performer rather than a diva. While Stella Powell-Jones' production captures the uncertainty of letter-writing, it sometimes feels outdated. The actors' movements between the cloud-like curtains designed by Tom Paris can be both touching and strained, depending on the scene.
Pickup and Turkington embody the characters with remarkable skill. Pickup's chandelier earrings add a touch of drama, and her portrayal of an older woman is both captivating and still. Turkington's portrayal of a petulant Shaw is equally impressive, with his hands stuffed in his pockets, easily wounded by the weight of their relationship.
The exchanges between Shaw and Campbell are filled with unspoken desire, as Campbell refuses to be a 'horse' to Shaw's 'Lady Godiva'. Are they merely 'lustless lions at play'? This play reveals the complex dynamics between these two cantankerous artists, who are enraptured by each other's imaginations.
Despite some minor shortcomings, 'Dear Liar' offers a unique and engaging perspective on a pivotal relationship in theatrical history. It is a must-see for theater enthusiasts, providing a fresh take on the classic Pygmalion story and the enduring impact of Shaw and Campbell's correspondence.
