Shakespeare Dallas & ‘Taming of the Shrew’: A Play On Workshop

A collaborative workshop brought together the cast and creative team of Shakespeare Dallas for their upcoming production of The Taming of the Shrew. The production, directed by Ryan Matthiew Smith and translated by Amy Fried, is a reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic comedy.

A Modern Take on a Classic

The Shakespeare Dallas production of The Taming of the Shrew is notable for its unique approach to the source material. It will be presented in modern verse, with a Spanish translation provided by Virginia Grise. This bilingual presentation aims to connect with a broader audience and offer a fresh perspective on the play’s themes.

Did You Know? The production involves a translation of selected lines of Shakespeare’s verse by Amy Freed.

The setting for this production is the Texas borderlands of the 1880s, specifically referencing locations like San Antonio and Brownsville. This choice of setting is intended to infuse the play with cultural vibrancy and a contemporary lens, celebrating Hispanic culture and traditions.

The Collaborative Process

The workshop, captured in a photograph by Mackenzie Breeden, highlights the collaborative effort between the actors and the creative team. Ryan Matthiew Smith worked closely with dramaturg Karina Gutiérrez to maintain the integrity of Shakespeare’s original work while delivering a lively pace.

Expert Insight: Presenting a classic play like The Taming of the Shrew in both English and Spanish, and setting it within a specific cultural context, demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in the arts. This approach could broaden the play’s appeal and spark new conversations about its enduring themes.

Shakespeare Dallas’ production is part of the “Play On Shakespeare” initiative, which aims to make Shakespeare’s works more accessible to modern audiences. The company’s versatility and commitment to inclusive storytelling are central to this production.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is directing the Shakespeare Dallas production of The Taming of the Shrew?

Ryan Matthiew Smith is directing the production.

Who translated the play into Spanish?

Virginia Grise provided the Spanish translation.

Where and when is the production set?

The production is set in the Texas borderlands of the 1880s.

How might a bilingual and culturally-specific production of a Shakespearean play resonate with audiences today?