Kiss Me, Kate

Darlington Theatre Players have chosen Kiss Me, Kate as the ultimate production in their year of Shakespeare inspired productions. a lovely bright, choice to close the season, it is directed by Neroli Burton, musically directed by (her son-in-law) Justin Freind and choreographed by Jessica Russell.

Chris Gerrish makes a commanding and convincing Fred Graham / Petruchio with loads of personality and a wonderful vocal performance. He is paired very nicely with Katherine Freind, who was named for the Shakespearean Katherine, as Lilli Vanessi / Katherine whose gorgeous voice is a delight.

In supporting roles Nyree Hughes stands out as a cheeky and wild Lois / Bianca and Sean Yeo is a clever choice as Bill / Lucentio. There is enthusiastic support from a cast of twenty-one.

Marjorie De Caux, Nyree Hughes and Rachel Vonk have assembled an impressive array of glamourous post-war and evocative Shakespearean costumes, with Rachel doing double duty playing a wardrobe mistress in the show - a lovely touch of fun.

George Boyd has designed a fabulous and detailed set, that allows us full settings for backstage, dressing rooms and on-stage in the show-within-a-show Taming of the Shrew.

At times I would have liked more energy from the obviously eager supporting cast, as their quietly earnest enthusiasm did not translate into 'oomph' in the group numbers. Pace slowed noticeably in several scenes.

Highlights included the title number "Kiss Me, Kate" from the end of the first act and the audience really enjoyed the hijinks of Keith Scrivens and Alan Markham as the underworld heavies.

Congratulations to Darlington Theatre Players for a creative and inspired Shakespearean season and for choosing this bright Cole Porter musical to close it with a bang.

Kimberley Shaw