The Taming of The Shrew
When you mention William Shakespeare, most consider him one of the greatest writers in the English language and the world's renowned dramatist. Still, when it comes to his writing of The Taming of the Shrew, it's considered, in today's society, to be his most controversial play as it dealt with taming a woman, known for being overly aggressive, ill-tempered, and argumentative, being compared to the aggressive nature of a small, mouse-like animal known as the Shrew. The question of whether the play is misogynistic has become the subject of considerable controversy. If you are not familiar with this Shakespearean comedy, its primary narrative centers on Petruchio's attempt to tame Katherina, an independent, strong-willed woman, into a desirable, obedient bride. The narrative also features a subplot in which suitors vie for the affection of Katherina's younger sister, Bianca, who embodied the ideals of the perfect, obedient woman. However, her prospects for marriage remain out of reach, as traditional societal norms dictate that she cannot receive any proposals until her high-spirited elder sister, Katherina, is married.
In her gutsy adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew, presented at the Court Theatre in Chicago, Marti Lyons offers a captivating reinterpretation that challenges the conventional narrative of misogynistic control. Instead, she delves into feminine desire and the intricacies of power dynamics and consent, exploring themes of empowerment through a fresh and intriguing perspective on Shakespeare's play. In Lyons's adaptation, Katherina is not a vessel to be broken and reshaped by the hand of man; she is more like his equal, who has the power and independence to control her own desires and destiny. With the core message "Surrender is no sacrifice," Lyons removes Shakespeare's abusive and derogatory term "taming" and replaces it with a consensual decision to equally submit, as illustrated by the hand symbols and the clapping and slapping of hands. Katherina (played by Melisa Soledad Pereyra) is intrigued by Petruchio's (Jay Whittaker) challenge to tame her, and she is determined to engage with him, seeking to reduce his sense of control while increasing her sense of independence and freedom of choice. Her adaptation mirrors the original in its words, themes, comic humor, and central protagonist characters; however, it removes male dominance within this play-within-a-play, exploring a more consensual agreement.
I had some mixed feelings about this play. Lyons really brings out the comedic aspects of Shakespeare's play, capturing its inherent wit while adding a delightful layer of energy and spirited humor that sometimes borders on the excessive. The energy, flow, and satire were masterfully woven into this production, giving it a life of its own. The cast members all delivered commendable performances, with Alex Weisman as Grumio, the witty, clownish servant to Petruchio, standing out. Lyons' adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew presents a clever and captivating reinterpretation of Shakespeare's classic play; however, it ultimately falls short for me. The dialogue sparkles with wit, and the fresh perspectives on the characters are intriguing, yet something about the execution, which completely alters the perspective on Shakespeare's work, feels more like a rewrite than an adaptation. I'm a purist at heart when it comes to original theatrical plays, and yet I've genuinely enjoyed several adaptations that have made changes. This production offers a reinterpretation of the original meaning and intent, and while some may disagree with its concept or approach, the significant alteration of the narrative merits careful consideration of others' use of the author's original title. Lyons' The Taming of the Shrew attempts to remove the play's "Taming," misogyny by radically recontextualizing its intent, but it needs work, its own identity, and a possible title change. It worked for Fifty Shades of Grey.
Court’s usual audience is discerning and deeply knowledgeable about Shakespearean productions. It remains to be seen whether this adaptation can consistently draw their normal audience and hold their interest.
⭐⭐1/2 Stars
Court Theatre
The Taming of The Shrew
By William Shakespeare
Adapted & Directed by Marti Lyons
Nov 14 - Dec 14, 2025
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