A REVIEW OF THE TAMING OF THE SHREW BY FOUR FRIENDS!

Vera

I was never very interested in Shakespeare at school and only became vaguely so when my husband studied English Literature with the Open University, so I watched this play with an open mind. After learning to understand the dialogue, and the complicated plot, I still feel that I could have appreciated the play more if the costumes had all been from the same period. Nevertheless I enjoyed my evening.

Simon

Having studied Shakespeare at school, I have remained a lifelong devotee of the Bard. I personally regard The Taming of the Shrew to be one of his lesser works: more of a light-hearted romantic situation comedy with much humour, than a fully blown tragedy with profound meaning or striking imagery. The dialogue is more lightweight banter than the more sombre soliloquies associated with his more famous tragedies. Nevertheless, the cast acted very well and delivered their lines with an animated eloquence that truly captured the spirit of the play.

Joyce

Not being a fan of Shakespeare, I was reluctant at first to attend The Taming of the Shrew. However, as a supporter of the New Stagers Theatre Club, I duly went along. I must admit that I did not understand a word of the Prologue, but when the play itself began, I did appreciate the plot, admired the acting, and thought the Bard had something to offer me, after all!!

Alan

I didn’t understand a word all evening! We unanimously admired the cast’s ability to learn and deliver the difficult dialogue and their excellent acting.

And some comments from other members -

Many thanks again for a splendid introduction for the boys to Shakespeare.  It was really good. Dona Cooper

We all thoroughly enjoyed your play and will be returning for the next one. It was such a lovely evening and makes a change to do a bit of culture! Ailsa Panton

I think they are really good, I see lots of professional stuff and think they are just as good !!! Rebbeca Wilson

It was the hottest night in July – or 2006 – or maybe this century, but that didn't stop 70 fans enjoying a rollicking version of Taming of the Shrew, despite our backs sticking to the chairs. Luckily we were offered just one cornetto at the interval! Special mention must go to the enthusiastic, polished and very funny Petruchio who still managed to exude an air of determination in his taming and wiving. One or two other cast members did not project with the same authority.

Otherwise, the cast was very strong with notable performances from the tailor, the drunk, the old man and Baptista. I was a bit puzzled as to why Kate was cast to be so much older than Bianca when there were so many other young girls in the play who surely could have played the part more convincingly.

Overall though, a very good evening's entertainment and worth at least £7!! Clare Heaton