Tonight I saw my second Shakespeare Theatre Company production, The Taming of the Shrew. It was this year’s “Free for All” show, which is presented to the public free on a first-come-first-served basis. If I had gotten my act together in time, my season ticket would have enabled me to reserve four free tickets, however all it cost me was two hours standing in line; but I guess it was worth experiencing what has become a bit of a DC tradition. Prior to the show there was a live music duo (guitar and sax) by Pablo and Gabo.
Just like King Lear this had high production values (read flashy sets and effects). Taming of the Shrew is one of my faves. This production chose a more slapstick humor approach; the funny bits were funny, but to me the overall effect is weakened. That is, with Petruchio just a goofball, the “taming” of Katherina just seems sadistic, and her speech at the end is just uncomfortable. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the evening. How can you go wrong with live Shakespeare for free?