The Taming of the Shrew
Teatr im. Juliusza Osterwy w Lublinie, Poland
The Lublin production of The Taming of the Shrew is more than a classical reading of the story of Kate and Petruchio - it is a collision of two worlds: the wealthy, elite Padua and its opposite, the mysterious rural house of Petruchio.
The titular "shrew" is not a spoiled heroine here, but a woman who does not fit within the boundaries imposed on her by those around her. Kate's resistance is a reaction to a world that denies her the right to decide her own fate. In this production, there are three Kates - all pulled from the audience and thrust into the world of theatre created by Petruchio and the other characters. Those eager to direct the heroine's life are many: her father and sister also assign her predetermined roles.
The performance unfolds in a scenography inspired by Renaissance painting, though the creators do not confine themselves to the classical framework of Shakespearean theatre. It raises questions about the sources of social labels, their impact on human choices, and the boundary between what is imposed and what is genuine.
The production contains cigarette smoke. The performance is recommended for audiences aged 15 and above.











