E-mail to a friend Find tickets

The Taming of the Shrew

Published Monday 19 July 2004 at 09:55 by John Hannam

There is nothing quite like a warm summer evening, within the old battlements of an English castle, to enjoy the delights of Shakespeare. On this occasion it was actually a cold July night in Hampshire but thanks to the impressive Groundlings Theatre Company everyone left with the warm glow of satisfaction.

This quite brilliant production is directed by Claire Wardle. The company brings a refreshing glow to Shakespeare, making it much more accessible and enjoyable. The group of young actors works hard and their obvious talents and enthusiasm radiate from the very first minute, so that the entertainment never slackens. This exquisite production proves there is enormous fun to be had in the Bard’s work. The team work is exceptional, superbly presenting the classic tale.

Aubrey Woodruff is visually electrifying as Kate, although for her final speech the audience had to strain to catch every word, one of the hazards of an outside location at 10.30pm. There were other glowing performances from Robert Cann as Lucentio and James Lavender as Tranio, who work well together. Jon De Ville is a swarthy and impressive Petruchio and Paul Lancaster as Biandello and Grumio is a real crowd pleaser - his scenes are eagerly anticipated. Other memorable performances come from Peter McCrohon (Hortensio/Pedant) and Ralph Mondi (Gremio /Vincentio). Emma Lucas as Bianco, Tim Molyneux as Baptista and Helen Oakleigh’s Widow also contribute much to this quite brilliant interpretation.

E-mail to a friend Find tickets