Major Barbara

Dakin Matthews has directed a production that has subtlety and energy. He finds thoughtful laughter in both the sharp epigrams ("The more destructive war becomes, the more fascinating we find it") and the personalities of Shaw's 1905 comedy of ideas. Again and again, a careful pause and a stressed phrase elicit an appreciative response from the live audience and make this challenging play accessible and enjoyable. Roger Rees stresses the intelligence and audacity of Andrew Undershaft, the munitions tycoon. Kirsten Potter depicts the strength and vulnerability of the title character, a saver of souls in the Salvation Army, whose view of life clashes with that of Undershaft, who is her father. An exceptional job--as good as any recording of any Shaw play. G.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine

Starred review from July 28, 2008
The classic Shaw play is interpreted by this extremely talented cast of 12 performers, which mounts a rousing, unforgettable show complete with incredibly well-produced and realistic sound effects that capture everything from doors creaking open, bustling crowds on city streets and impatient horses ready to trot. Roger Rees as the elder Undershaft and Kirsten Potter as his daughter Barbara are standouts. The two play off each another very well and offer some truly memorable arguments that are the cornerstone of the story. The engaging cast sweeps listeners off to the cobblestone streets of old England.