The Taming of the Shrew

Play

Writers: William Shakespeare

Overview

Show Information

Category
Play
Number of Acts
5
First Produced
1591
Genres
Comedy, Romance
Settings
Multiple Settings, Period
Time & Place
padua, italy, time unspecified
Cast Size
large
Licensor
None/royalty-free
Ideal for
College/University, Ensemble Cast, Large Cast, Mostly Male Cast, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre, Star Vehicle Female, Star Vehicle Male
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes young adult, adult, late teen, mature adult, elderly characters

Synopsis

Modest and beautiful young Bianca is the most coveted young maiden in Padua...but no one can marry her before a match is found for her wild, willful, “shrewish” older sister, Kate. Kate has tormented and frightened every man who dared to dance her way, and Bianca and her suitors have nearly given up hope. That is, until Petruchio comes to town. When a team of Bianca’s suitors bribe Petruchio to try his hand at marrying Kate, he is eager for the challenge – and to get his hands on Kate’s considerable dowry. As maddeningly strong-willed as Kate herself, Petruchio is determined that he can “tame” this shrew. What ensues is one of Shakespeare’s most outrageous comedies, in which two misfits who have never compromised in their lives take a riotous journey towards becoming each other’s perfect match.

Lead Characters


The Taming of the Shrew guide sections