Taming of the Shrew

Wow! Just Wow!

The Shakespeare Theatre Company STC, presents their 20th season of "Free For All" and what a 20th is was!!!!

Last night, in my quest to see all of Shakespeare, I saw this production of Taming of the Shrew. And it was probably one of the best performances of not only free Shakespeare, but any Shakespeare, I've ever seen!

I'd like to reflect on one down side, then move to the Amazingness of the rest of the play. The set. Although it was beautiful, it was reflective (think department store storefront windows with mirrors behind them). I just personal don't like being able to see the audience. Also, something the theatre couldn't help, I was quite literally surrounded by people using listening devices; so I would hear the actors on stage and then a second delay, I'd hear them again in my neighbors ears :(

But now to what worked! The chemistry between all the actors! This is what really made the play amazing. Even the energy of the ensemble seemed to mesh well to make this a great experience.

Senor Babtista was a loving father throughout, wanting only the best for his daughters. While a plethora of guys (three of way varying ages) woo his youngest daughter; the highly attractive  Bianca; Petruchio tries to tame Kate into a more obedient wife. With very few subplots to keep tract of, this Shakespeare story is simple and easy to follow.

The play calls for quick wit and a decisive tongue.  And the actors playing Petruchio and Katherine (Kate) was amazing! When their characters first met, the actors were given the task to continue to deliver Shakespearean text while having a physical fight, and making it all funny! Every slap, every kick, every thing, was just perfectly timed to get the most laughs!

If you're in the DC area, I recommend that you check this show out!