Pygmalion, perhaps George Bernard Shaw’s best-known play, dealt with a strong-minded woman and issues of society. That theme and similar issues also run through the lesser-known Misalliance, which is set to close at Off-Off Broadway's Pulse Ensemble Theatre Dec. 17. The production began performances Nov. 28.

Misalliance focuses on the Tartleton family whose estate was built on underwear. The play spans the Neoclassical standard day-in-the-home of the merchant of the unmentionables and his family. Though a comedy, the play also takes on issues of women's equality and the double standard in Victorian England.

Ann Bowen directs a cast that includes Michael Gilpin, Maureen Hayes, Natalie Wilder, Bryan Grosbauer, Stephen Aloi, JulieHera [sic] DeStefano, and Steve Abbruscato. The production features sets by Roger Mooney, costumes by Terry Leong, and lights by Herrick Golman.

For tickets to the production at Pulse, which is located at 432 West 42nd St. (between 9th and 10th Ave.), call (212) 695-1596.

— by Ernio Hernandez