Shrew (The Taming Of) - Theatre Space North East Review
Written by Stacy for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
The setting is St Peter’s Church in Sunderland and it’s hard not to be impressed by the atmosphere that the place has to offer. Towering arches, stained glass windows and a sense of history lingering in the air. But as beautiful as the venue is, I did wonder how it would lend itself to something as punchy and fast-paced as a modern take on The Taming of the Shrew. Yes, the space was a challenge at times, with some scenes slightly stifled by the layout, but overall, Theatre Space North East made it work - sometimes by leaning into the awkwardness with humour, which felt fitting for the play’s chaotic energy.
This rendition of Shrew (The Taming Of) uses a modern-verse translation by Amy Freed in association with Play On Shakespeare, and the update works well. The language still delivers Shakespearean wit, but it’s accessible and funny for a present-day audience. Director Corinne Kilvington understands the constraints of modernising a controversial classic, and the result showcases a self-aware production that doesn’t shy away from the messier parts of the original.
Rebecca McClelland shines as Kate, with a raw and sharp delivery that is never far from the edge. Her performance strikes a balance between fury and vulnerability, and from her first entrance, you know this is not a woman to be underestimated. Her chemistry with Grant Lawson’s Petruchio is captivating as they spar, clash, and circle each other with a wild energy that’s both uncomfortable and compelling to watch. Lawson leans into Petruchio’s absurdity to give us a character who’s not quite villain, nor hero either. His attempts to ‘tame’ Kate are shown to be part performance and part panic, and he never feels in full control, which makes his eventual softening feel earned.
Erin Atack’s Bianca suggests a polished charm and passive-aggressive perfection, the very image of filtered femininity. Her comic timing lands with precision, especially in scenes with her various suitors - each one more ridiculous than the last. Luke Maddison (Lucentio), Samuel Mandele (Hortensio), and Andrew Dawson (Gremio) lean fully into the absurdity of their roles, never missing a beat to create a comic relief that dances around the more measured moments in the play.
The ensemble brought full energy and wit to the production by doubling up roles and keeping the pace moving in a swift manner. The unique space, though at times tricky, proved inventive. However, a few moments did get lost acoustically, and sightlines weren’t always ideal depending on where you sat, but these were minor issues in an otherwise vibrant performance.
Shrew (The Taming Of) is a cheeky, competent, and astute production. It doesn’t pretend to have all the answers, but it’s not afraid to ask the deeper questions around identity, power, and love in the age of curated perfection. Theatre Space North East have taken a bold swing here, and I think it paid off.
Shrew (The Taming Of) plays at St Peter’s Church until 20 July before it plays from 23 - 27 July at Durham Fringe Festival.
★★★★
