Get BASH’d: The Taming of the Shrew

As James Wallis and wife Julia Nish-Lapidus see it, there’s no reason why Shakespeare’s works can’t be understood and enjoyed by anyone, anywhere. According to Wallis, Artistic Director of BASH’d, it’s all about clarity of understanding. Lapidus adds that their aim is to make the Bard’s works approachable and likeable to younger audiences that may only have secondary school Shakespeare experiences to draw from.

What better way to have people engage, than to stage Shrew in a live space, here, the Monarch Tavern. The bar remains open throughout the show and the smaller space provides a deeper level of audience involvement with the production. It’s a fun, intimate and social atmosphere where the energy of the actors blends with the patrons to create a special brew of communication.

The Taming of the Shrew has long been one of Shakespeare’s more divisive plays, with rampant themes of misogyny throughout. Here, with real life husband and wife Wallis and Lapidus playing Petruchio and Kate, we have an added layer of depth to the comedy.

“We are all very flawed people; couples fight, bicker and brawl, but in the end no one understands the other as well as they know each other” says Wallis.

“I see the final monologue as a beautiful love letter from Kate” adds Lapidus. “I do go out of my way to make James happy and comfortable, but he does the same for me. That’s what love is about. It’s not about breaking or bowing for a spouse—it’s just love.”

The cast of Shakespeare BASH’d invite you come out, lean forward and engage with them. Start conversations about the play, whether you agree with the content or not. After all, theatre is about emotions, and invoking emotions in people, regardless of what those feelings are.

The Taming of the Shrew runs from April 9 – 12 with 5 shows to choose from. Tickets are $18 with no service charges. Get your tickets early. 

For more information please visit: www.shakespearebashd.com