I want to apologize at the outset. Here Chicago Shakespeare Theater just built an astonishing new performance space, the Yard, where nine huge “audience towers” can be slid around on cushions of air, allowing for all kinds of configurations. And here they inaugurated it with a four-night stand by the supremely gifted Swiss physical artist James Thiérrée, providing not only a gorgeous show but an encouraging sign that the Yard will be thoughtfully programmed. And now, ingrate that I am, I’m going to tell you what a mess CST’s new main-stage version of The Taming of the Shrew is.
Enter Petruchio, a connubial mercenary who’s famously “come to wive it wealthily in Padua.” Backed by Bianca’s suitors, he marries Katherine and embarks on a “taming” campaign having a lot in common with classic brainwashing techniques. By the time Katherine’s reeducation is over, she’s so thoroughly housebroken that she can lecture other women (including Bianca) on wifely duty, telling them to “place your hands below your husband’s foot.”
Through 11/12: Wed 1 and 7:30 PM, Thu-Fri 7:30 PM, Sat 3 and 8 PM, Sun 2 and 6:30 PM The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater 800 E. Grand 312-595-5600chicagoshakes.com $58-88
