A Modern Twist on Shakespeare: "The Taming of the Shrew" at St Peter’s Church, Sunderland
The Taming of the Shrew: A Modern Twist in St Peter’s Church
Setting the Scene
Stepping into St Peter’s Church in Sunderland is like entering a living history book. The towering arches and vibrant stained glass create a reverent atmosphere, perfect for reflection—or in this case, a fast-paced retelling of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. It might seem counterintuitive to place such a chaotic comedy in such a hallowed space, but Theatre Space North East embraced the challenge, weaving humor into the very fabric of what could have been a constricting setting.
A Fresh Translation
This rendition, using Amy Freed’s modern-verse translation from the Play On Shakespeare project, is a triumph. Freed’s language retains Shakespearean wit while making it relatable and amusing for today’s audiences. Director Corinne Kilvington navigates the complexities of modernizing a controversial classic with an astute understanding of its themes. The production doesn’t shy away from the darker undertones of the original, embracing the messiness that comes with love and power dynamics.
Standout Performances
Rebecca McClelland’s portrayal of Kate is a raw standout. She expertly balances fury and vulnerability, making it clear from her first entrance that this is not a woman to take lightly. Her on-stage chemistry with Grant Lawson’s Petruchio is electric, creating a dynamic interplay that oscillates between tension and flirtation. Lawson’s take on Petruchio is layered and nuanced; he is not merely a villain but a performer panicking to maintain control over a situation that spirals unpredictably.
Erin Atack’s Bianca embodies the essence of polished charm entwined with passive aggression. Her comic timing shines through, particularly in her interactions with a crew of suitors—each more outrageous than the last. Luke Maddison (Lucentio), Samuel Mandele (Hortensio), and Andrew Dawson (Gremio) embrace the absurdity of their roles, providing comic relief that contrasts beautifully with the more serious elements of the narrative.
The Ensemble Effect
The ensemble cast dynamically keeps the pace lively, effectively doubling up roles and maintaining a swift rhythm throughout the performance. While the venue posed some challenges in acoustics and sightlines—certain moments did get lost in translation—these were minor blips in an otherwise vibrant display of theatricality. The inventiveness around staging added depth, bolstering the narrative weight.
A Thought-Provoking Production
Shrew (The Taming Of) is not just a cheeky romp; it’s a competent exploration of deeper themes surrounding identity and love in an era obsessed with curated perfection. Theatre Space North East has taken bold steps to present a narrative that invites dialogue rather than offering easy answers.
Running until July 20 at St Peter’s Church and continuing from July 23-27 at the Durham Fringe Festival, this production deserves a hearty ★★★★ for its imaginative approach and compelling performances. Don’t miss out on experiencing this audacious take on a classic!
Come witness a marriage of past and present—where ancient text meets modern interpretation, all within the breathtaking setting of a church steeped in history.