Kiss Me Kate

CAMUS acknowledged the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death with their production of Kiss Me Kate, which is a production within a production of “The Taming of the Shrew”.

The foyer was busy with the theatre goers getting their tickets and raffle tickets, with a warm welcome from the Director, Sue Sampson.

A nicely presented 20 page A5 programme contained a good synopsis, cast list, scenes and musical numbers, and details of Behind the Scenes personnel, with acknowledgement of being affiliated to NODA.  Good photos and pen portraits of principals.

From the opening number – Another Op’nin, Another Show – it was evident this was going to be a fine, fast moving, production. I liked the “stage hands” each having a line from the opening lines and building up to the full chorus; strong vibrant singing from Laura Thomas (Hattie) with plenty of movement from the chorus.  Lilli Vanessi/Katharine's (Sue Prior) appearance soon made clear she was someone with a strong character and not to be trampled on; her diction and singing was of the finest and a joy to listen to and her “I Hate Men” was tremendous.

Fred Graham/Petruchio (Martin Sampson) encapsulated the ex-husband of Lilli and fulfilled the role of Petruchio with aplomb.  The two gangsters (Neil Gibson & Dave Collier) in their black and red themed costumes, especially with the shoes, played their characters excellently; a super rendition of “Brush up your Shakespeare” including encores.   Fine diction and singing from Dannie Stembridge as Lois Lane/Bianca Minola, with just the right amount of coyness and flirtation.   Brian Connelly's (Harry Trevor/Baptiste) interpretation of being a harassed Baptiste, desperate to find a husband for Kate, was well conveyed.

Fine performances from Paul Gibson (Bill Calhoun/Lucentio), Tony Siddall (General Harrison Howell) in a very smart uniform, Laura Thomas (Hattie), and all were well supported by other members of the cast, chorus, together with the Dancers who had been well choreographed by Melissa Timms.

Congratulations to Sue Sampson with the costumes to a high standard and in keeping for the era as well as for all the Shakespearean characters.  Richard Stockton ensured the fine playing of the orchestra did not overwhelm the musical numbers, making the production highly enjoyable.

Congratulations to all involved in any way with ensuring another first class production by CAMUS, and last but not least to Sue Sampson excellent directing.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.