ALMOST 40 years after Hazel Burrows played Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady, the York Light Opera Company stalwart will take the role of Mrs Higgins in the musical at York Theatre Royal.

"I'm just as delighted to be in this production, if slightly apprehensive; they're all very kind to me, poor old dear!" she said.

"It's such a wonderful play, with great music and dialogue and spectacular costumes."

In 1969, York Light Opera first performed the Lerner and Loewe show in a complete sell-out at the Theatre Royal.

Not unlike Eliza, Kent-born Hazel found "it wasn't the Cockney accent that was hard to master, but the posh one!"

"Playing the role was a challenge," she admitted. "I'd never actually seen the show or the film, and so it was all my own portrayal."

Hazel has seen many changes in theatre life since she joined the company in 1958. "Many shows at that time were new and fresh, and people were dying to see plays like My Fair Lady. As a cast we were responsible for our own hair and make-up; there were none of these fancy wigs that you have now. We're thoroughly spoiled these days.

"We never had grand changing rooms either; the chorus boys had to change costume in caravans parked outside the theatre, and a wobbly ladder was what facilitated an elegant stage entrance. It was all good fun."

Hazel remains in touch with most of the original cast. "We're all still good friends to this day, and Beryl Long, who originally played Mrs Pearce the housekeeper, will return to play the Queen. It's only a little part, but she'll be there!"

Hazel maintained involvement with the committee for many years. "I was definitely in the prompt corner! My Fair Lady has been the highlight of my acting career."

My Fair Lady will run at the Theatre Royal from February 12 to 23; box office 01904 623 568.