THE PLAY: Shakespeare’s comedy about a father with 2 daughters: one is sweet & beautiful, but can’t be married until after her older sister Kate, the unruly headstrong shrew. While several woo the former, only brave Petruchio will brave the later.
THE PRODUCTION: Director Jan Powell set the play on a soundstage during the ’30s. They’re making a movie with additional “footage” of the cast milling around the edges of the stage, singing songs between scenes and, most irritating, re-starting certain segments. What might have been a clever concept is mostly a distraction, especially the constant activity on the sidelines. Powell’s flair for comic staging manages some fine moments, but the intrusion of several screen icons simply gets in the way. The cast is assured if not inspired. Matt Hackman’s Petruchio is a strong presence, but the capable Liz Blake White could have taken Katherine’s terrifying temperament further. The set and costumes are serviceable and the projections add a cinematic touch.
THE POINT: It’s always risky to re-imagine the Bard and this time, it got in the way.