Sydney productions of The Taming of the Shrew have been few and far between in recent years. Although a highly entertaining yarn, the reason for its scarcity is doubtlessly the play’s problematic gender politics.
These femme fatales probably don’t have a destructive effect on anyone but themselves; subject, as modern women are, to a relentless barrage of self-critical thoughts and self-effacing remarks.
Matthew O’Sullivan has directed a very solid production of Romeo & Juliet for the Globe Centre, using pared-back staging that relies on performance and using his comparatively small but enthusiastic cast to good effect.
What sets Circus Oz aside from other new circuses, such as Cirque du Soleil, is their down to earth, Australian colloquial style that makes the performance all the more accessible.
A gifted embroider of words, Friel combines soft lyricism and hard meaning in his play, a tragical comical historical pastoral on a spree and spoiling for a spirited spar.
In the care of Pinchgut Opera’s director, Erin Helyard, this music, formulaic as it indeed is in some respects, sprang off the page into an experience rich in emotions.
Iolanthe and Janet Anderson work in cosmic, comedic accord, characterisation charismatic, timing impeccable, delivery precise, together a tour de force that ascends the cliché.
Blind faith and rational belief are always sparring partners in dramatic conflict and so it is here with the power play tinged with superstition and salaciousness.