Shakespeare’s romantic romp, The Taming of the Shrew, shines a comic spotlight on the pleasures and misadventures of the search for the perfect partner. Beautiful Bianca has no shortage of admirers, but she can’t marry until her headstrong sister Kate finds a husband. Along comes fortune-seeking Petruchio who sets out to capture the heart of the fiery-spirited Kate. Petruchio and Kate face off in a crackling battle of wits, while three enthusiastic suitors launch their own devious campaigns as they vie for Bianca’s affections.
Petruchio then sets out to tame his new bride, with the help of his sidekick Grumio (Kayvon Kelly). While Kate and Petruchio engage in a lively battle of wits, three hopeful suitors vie for Bianca’s affections: Lucentio (Anton Lipovetsky), optimistic favourite Hortensio (Kevin Kruchkywich) and the elderly but wealthy Gremio (Shawn Macdonald).
While Lucentio poses as a schoolmaster, his servant Tranio (Kyle Rideout) assumes the role of his master. When confirmation of the promised dower is needed, a traveller (Craig Erickson) successfully pretends to be Lucentio’s father until the real Vincentio (Duncan Fraser) arrives. Adding to the shenanigans is a local tailor (Ian Butcher), a widow (Susan Coodin), Baptista’s servant Biondella (Colleen Wheeler) and Petruchio’s servant Curtis (Bob Frazer).
For this Bard on the Beach season opener at the BMO Mainstage, set designer Kevin McAllister has created a pastoral Arcadian landscape with elements that harmonize with the stage’s natural Vanier Park backdrop. Mara Gottler’s costumes add strong, bright colours to the production’s Empire-era, Italian-influenced setting.
The Taming of the Shrew
Dates: May 31 to September 22
Previews: May 31, May 31, June 1, 2, 3, 5, 6
Celebrating Red & White: wine tasting event following the 3 pm matinee and before the 8 pm show on August 18
Venue: BMO Mainstage, Vanier Park, Vancouver
Tickets: $40 (evenings); $21 to $33 (previews and matinees); $30 Youth (6 to 25 years old)
All adult evening tickets are priced at $36 for June
Ticket prices include reserved seating and HST; purchase tickets either online or via phoning the box office at 604.739.0559.