The Taming of the Shrew, or Mussolini, Kate's Part in his Downfall

Commissioned by Avon Touring
Small to medium scale touring, 2 hours, cast of 4 +

Synopsis: 'The theatre was the people's spoken, dramatised newspaper.' Dario Fo in 'Mistero Buffo'. Four travelling players in 1935 fascist Italy present their controversial version of Shakespeare's play.  Fast moving and very physical, this radical rewrite makes use of commedia, farce, puppets, and includes a dream sequence in which Bianca portrays a range of female archetypes.  Both sisters go through profound changes.   In a surprising twist, Kate's last speech, a radio broadcast, turns into a moving challenge to her husband Petruchio/Mussolini's oppressive personal and political rule.