Review: The Taming of the Shrew @ Worden Park, Leyland

4:33pm Friday 11th July 2008

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Sun shining, birds singing, home-cooked food and Shakespeare- these were definitely the right ingredients for a perfect evening.

Dean Taylor Productions who are celebrating their 6th Shakespeare season this year, descended on the Worden Park in Leyland this week with their performance of Taming of the Shrew.

People packed into the idyllic setting just outside the arts and crafts centre to watch the action unravel in the Shakespearean comedy.

The play, which was truly enhanced by the music provided by Chris Gill and Serenna Wagner, had style, panache and plenty of humour.

The actors are captivating as they add contemporary touches to the robust physical comedy and engage the audience with a few hilarious ad libs.

David Beck as Petruchio exudes testosterone and is well matched with Brigid Lohrey’s buxom Katharina as the battle of the sexes commences.

The power struggle between the husband and wife for the marital upper hand, inspires romping bawdy from the very outset and the on-stage chemistry between the duo is very apparent.

Carole Carpenter’s pretty Bianca, is manipulative as she turns on the waterworks to twist her father round her little finger and Bernadette Nuttall’s and Katey Siddall’s cross-gender playing of Lucentio and Tranio is enjoyable.

Overall, there's not really a weak link in the entire production and you'll miss a feast of entertainment if you don't see this.

There are three more performances in Turton Tower, Bolton, Lancashire, from July 11-13.

Call 01772 466256.