Shakespeare is fun, this is the reminder, or in some cases revelation, this play gave its audience. It dispensed with many companies' recent penchant to burden Shakespeare's comedies with an imagined heavy sub text and was performed as a comedy. One which had me laughing more than any previous production. Every member of the cast added to the production's vibrancy. All are talented comedians as well as actors.
This production is hugely entertaining: energetic, bawdy and masses of fun. The volume of the play, the energy and charisma of the cast, the bright costumes and the relaxed outdoor setting all contribute to make this a funny, engaging and immensely enjoyable evening. The company has excelled in achieving it's aim of enabling its audience to recognise the relevance of Shakespeare and to participate in the enjoyment of the work."
Essex County Standard
Ann Courtney's regional touring company Mad Dogs and Englishmen is visiting barns, castle parks, churchyards, manor houses and pubs, with its summer production of that very accessible and rumbustious Shakespearean comedy. - As their name suggests, these performers have a reckless penchant for the open air.
The taming of shrewish Kate by her strong-willed new husband can never be truly judged by today's standards of equality, but Courtney- who plays the eponymous Katerina - clearly understands that this unhappy young woman is much more content living in obedience to her Petruchio and will doubtless be treated with far more respect as a consequence. Courtney carries off the mellowing of her character with triumphant dignity.
Tim Freeman's big and blustering Petruchio - just like a young Brian Blessed - has tons of charisma…..and Petruchio's outrageous codpiece - unforgettable.
The Stage Liz Mullen 24 th July 1998 |
