STUART — Shakespeare’s comedy “The Taming of the Shrew” opens June 27 and will be on stage at the A.C.T. Studio Theatre through July 12.
Written in 1590 and dealing with subject matter that in today’s terms could be referred to as sexism, gaslighting and domestic abuse. The play remains a vital, controversial exploration of gender dynamics and power.
Few of Shakespeare’s plays generate as much conversation and controversy as “The Taming of the Shrew.” Director Stephen Mayer approached this production purposefully, embracing the questions this farce has presented for centuries. Is it about love and transformation, or power and control?
“Shakespeare’s world some 400 years ago was shaped by social expectations and gender roles that are uncomfortable and even troubling today. Yet beneath the play’s provocative surface lies a story about two fiercely intelligent individuals who challenge, provoke, and ultimately transform one another,” Mayer said.
Local actors Ryan Conner and Jill Kober star in the lead roles of Petruchio and Katherine.
“Rather than viewing Katherine and Petruchio as simple opposites, I explored them as equals locked in a battle of wits, will, and independence,” said Mayer. “Both characters resist the expectations placed upon them, and both discover that relationships require compromise, vulnerability, and understanding.”
Other cast members include James Mitchell, LeAnna Wiseley, Chris Hanson, Pip Thibeaux, Mary Murphy, Kelly Wright, Faith Shaw, Erin Moreno, Nicolas Pollio, Ferne Barishman and Annette Reimers. A.C.T. Studio Theatre invites you to laugh, consider, and question how ideas about love, marriage, identity, and partnership continue to evolve. Whether you leave the theater delighted, challenged, or still debating the play’s meaning, the innovative theater hopes this production sparks conversation long after the house lights come up.
“The Taming of the Shrew” runs weekends June 27 through July 12. Show times are 3 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $28 and may be purchased online at actstudiotheatre.com or by phone at (772) 932-8880. The A.C.T. Studio Theatre is located in the Cedar Pointe Plaza at 2399 SE Ocean Blvd., Stuart.