There is a special kind of magic that happens when a classic musical is staged in an intimate space — the kind that brings familiar characters closer and reveals new colors in a story we think we already know.
On Dec. 3, I had the joy of experiencing “My Fair Lady” at Theater Latté Da in Minneapolis, where the production — running through Dec. 28 — felt crafted with extraordinary affection, curiosity and care. The production is directed by Justin Lucero, with music direction by Denise Prosek and choreography by Abby Magalee.
This wasn’t a retelling that simply dusted off a beloved script. Instead, it breathed with a warmth and immediacy that made the humor sharper, the relationships more real and the emotional stakes surprisingly tender.
Much of that richness came from the two leads — Anna Hashizume as Eliza Doolittle and Jon-Michael Reese as Henry Higgins — who acted with such natural chemistry and shared rhythm that it felt they were born to step into these roles.
A trio that makes the story sing
At the center of this revival is a beautifully calibrated relationship between Eliza Doolittle, Henry Higgins and Col. Pickering, played by Tod Peterson.
Their scenes together land with the kind of comedic timing and emotional honesty that can only happen when actors are fully in sync — listening, responding and building a world around each other with generosity.
Their dynamic was equal parts witty, chaotic and deeply human. Each character felt fully realized rather than confined to caricature, giving the story’s emotional arc more texture and heart.
A surprising standout: Freddy
One of the loveliest surprises of the night was Freddy Eynsford-Hill, played by Felix Aguilar Tomlinson, whose sincerity and warmth extended far beyond the typical portrayal of the lovelorn young admirer.
What is often a secondary role became a moment of genuine emotional clarity. His performance added a softness to the world around Eliza — a contrast that highlighted her growing independence, strength and sense of worth. It was refreshing, unexpected and beautifully done.
Eliza’s transformation, told with care
Eliza’s journey — from resilience in the streets to discovering the power and cost of her own voice — was portrayed with nuance and emotional truth.
What made this production feel so fresh was the care given to her transformation. Rather than rushing through her evolution, the performance allowed space for her spark, her vulnerability, her wit and the quiet heartbreak of realizing what she has had to shed along the way.
The result was an Eliza who felt grounded, relatable and impossible not to root for.
A living room stage that feels like home
One of the loveliest surprises of the night was Freddy Eynsford-Hill, played by Felix Aguilar Tomlinson, whose sincerity and warmth extended far beyond the typical portrayal of the lovelorn young admirer.
The set — a richly decorated study filled with books, textures and lived-in details — became both playground and pressure cooker. The actors moved through it with ease, weaving humor and heart into every corner.
The two pianists, positioned above the actors, added a sense of immediacy to every musical moment. Their presence felt woven into the storytelling, creating a soundscape that was both intimate and alive.
Choreography that brings the story to life
The choreography was a standout — full of life, clarity and intention. Rather than treating movement as background, this production used it as a vital storytelling tool.
Characters crossed the space with confidence and rhythm, and the scenes unfolded with a dynamic energy that made the show feel constantly alive. It was choreography that enhanced character, elevated humor and deepened emotion.
Theater Latté Da: a Minneapolis treasure
Founded in 1998 and now based at the historic Ritz Theater in northeast Minneapolis, Theater Latté Da has long been one of the Twin Cities’ artistic gems — known for bold reimaginings of classic musicals and for creating new connections between story, music, artist and audience.
Over the years, the company has built a reputation for intimate, musically rich productions that invite audiences to experience familiar titles in fresh, deeply felt ways.
At a time when theaters across the country are redefining their place in the community, Theater Latté Da continues to lead with heart, craft and deep respect for musical storytelling.
A closing reflection
There is a gentle beauty in watching a classic awaken inside a smaller space. At Theater Latté Da, the music feels closer, the characters more human, and the story settles into your heart in surprising ways.
On Dec. 3, I left the theater feeling quietly moved — not by spectacle, but by honesty, tenderness and the joy of watching artists breathe new life into a familiar world.
This “My Fair Lady” doesn’t demand to be grand; it invites you to lean in. It offers laughter, reflection and moments of emotional truth that arrive softly but stay with you long after the lights come up.
Theater Latté Da has created a production that feels intimate, thoughtful and full of heart — the kind of theater that reminds you, gently and unmistakably, what it feels like to be moved.
For tickets, audiences can book online at latteda.org, call the box office at 612-339-3003 or visit the Ritz Theater, 345 13th Ave. NE in Minneapolis, during regular business hours.
Editor’s note: This is the latest installment of Rachel’s Reviews, where Rachel Engstrom, a contributor to Eden Prairie Local News (EPLN), reviews various aspects of Eden Prairie and beyond. Do you have ideas for reviews? Reach out to Rachel Engstrom at rachel.engstrom@eplocalnews.org.
