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September 17, 2007
Can't Wait for Shrew
I am so excited about the upcoming production of "The Taming of the Shrew" in my beloved Washington, DC. Shrew is my favorite Shakespeare play, and it's one that is hardly ever produced. Just having the chance to see it is a rare opportunity.
Ever since I studied the play in college, I have believed it is possible to produce a Shrew that is both romantic and feminist. I don't imagine it would be easy. There are formidable challenges, like a text that seems misogynist and archaic to a modern audience. I have never seen a production that manages to overcome that, but I am still hopeful that it can be done.
After listening to director Rebecca Bayla Taichman talk about the upcoming production, I am even more hopeful. If a romantic, feminist production of Shrew can be had, Ms. Taichman seems exactly the woman to pull it off. At the theatre's website, you can see video of her talking about the show, or listen to the podcast version.
Listen to the part where she talks about what being a shrew means. I love how she points out that Kate is silent through much of the play in direct opposition to her shrewish label. I was nodding my head when she said that.
As I studied Shrew, one of the things that appealed to me was the tension between this woman who is labeled "shrew" and the fact that she is not the most shrewish person in the play. Petruchio out-shrews Kate more than once. I think he must do it on purpose because it has two very positive results: 1) it puts the townspeople on Kate's side for a change (against Petruchio, her new husband, who behaves appallingly at their wedding), and 2) it gives Kate the opportunity to redefine her role (suddenly she is the one defending the servants from abuse, Petruchio's abuse).
I am also pleased that the notes on the website quote Coppelia Kahn. I think it was her "Man's Estate" I read back in the day, but what Coppelia Kahn has to add to the Shrew equation is the insight that Kate truly holds the power over Petruchio despite her submission to him at the end. Actually it is because of her submission. Kate doesn't need Petruchio. But Petruchio needs Kate. He needs her submission to validate him as an adult male in the strongly patriarchal society of the play. Without a wife who submits to him, Petruchio is a marginalized member of society. Only through his successful "taming" of a wife can he be respected. That is a key piece to understanding the play.
Don't miss the video where Taichman wrestles with the question of whether Shrew is "a great love story or a sexist put-down?" In her wisdom, she declares that it is both -- and much more.
I can't wait to see the show. I've got my tickets. How about you? Really, when do you think you'll have another opportunity to see "The Taming of the Shrew?" It could be awhile.
Posted by Selena at September 17, 2007 05:48 PM