Kiss Me Kate

Kiss me Kate is a challenging show to put on as it combines 1940’s America with parts of Shakespeares' play.  This Society rose to the challenge admirably.

The lush score was performed by a full and experienced chorus with enthusiasm. With choreography that complemented the singing rather than distracting from it, the overall effect was delightful.

With, in effect, two sets of dialogue to learn and the songs, the principals have their work cut out. Stuart Esworthy as Fred Graham and Elizabeth West as Lilli Vanessi have the unenviable task of showing the relationship between the leading man and woman in both sections of the show. They both manage this convincingly with heartfelt songs and painful face slaps. Charlotte Brooks as Lois Lane, the dancer turned actress, shows the naiveté of the character and performs a large solo dance in Too Darn Hot with panache. Of note are the gangsters Lippy and Gus (Peter Brooks and Neil Roberts) the comic timing of these two and the broad accents made them a joy to watch.

The scenery and props enabled smooth set changes but still looked in keeping with the period and added colour in the “Shrew” scenes. Also adding to the atmosphere were the costumes which were equally colourful and historically accurate.

This was an enjoyable production and a brave departure from the Societies usual Gilbert and Sullivan shows.

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