Manchester-based HER Productions is back this summer with its 6th annual Shakespeare production, offering a bold new interpretation of “The Taming of the Shrew.” This all-female and non-binary cast will take on the classic comedy with a unique twist, setting the play in a cabaret club and infusing it with elements of burlesque, clowns, and cabaret.
The production runs at Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester from June 19th to 30th, 2024, before moving on to Shakespeare North Playhouse and concluding with two nights at Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield on July 17th and 19th.
A Unique Twist on a Classic Tale
In this reimagined version, a drunken patron named Sly becomes the target of a prank orchestrated by the “Bella’s,” a gang who run a cabaret club. They convince Sly that he is a wealthy Lord and weave him a tale about a merchant with two daughters, the “shrewish” Katherina and her younger sister Bianca. Katherina’s fiery temperament stands in the way of Bianca’s marriage prospects, leading to a series of hilarious and chaotic events.
A Creative Collaboration
HER Productions founder and actress Hannah Ellis Ryan takes the helm as director for the first time, collaborating with co-director Amy Gavin, who brings her expertise in cabaret and burlesque to the production. The duo’s shared vision promises a vibrant and exciting theatrical experience, complete with “10 Things I Hate About You” references, pole dancing, crochet beards, and more.
“These Shakespeare projects are the highlight of my year,” says Hannah Ellis Ryan. “To now step up and direct for the first time is beyond thrilling, but I couldn’t do it without Amy by my side. Our vision for ‘Taming of the Shrew’ has always been so vibrant, so clear, and I cannot wait to bring it to life with this outrageously talented cast. Audiences are in for a real treat.”
Don’t miss this unique and captivating production that promises to be a highlight of the summer theater season. For tickets and more information, visit the HER Productions website or the Hope Mill Theatre website.
Ticket are on sale for Hope Mill Theatre Website –Link here
HER Productions Returns with a Cabaret-Infused ‘Taming of the Shrew’
