Cambridge University's Lent Term musical is returning with a 'joyfully jazzy' revival of Kiss Me, Kate!
Set in Baltimore in 1948, the story follows a theatre company as they are putting on a new, musical rendition of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew, while a strikingly similar story unfolds among the cast.
Egotistical leading man, director and producer Fred Graham is forced to work alongside his ex-wife, Lilli Vanessi.
As the two bicker, it becomes clear they are still in love, against a backdrop of big-band jazz, mistaken identity and massive dance numbers.
Directed by Gina Stock and Jonathan Black, the show features hits including 'Too Darn Hot', 'Brush Up Your Shakespeare', 'Another Op'nin, Another Show', as well as the lesser-known gems 'I Hate Men' and 'Tom, Dick or Harry'.
Gina Stock, an experienced choreographer and performer, said: "The comedic bickering, strong personalities and relationship ins and outs of the plot will appeal to those even without a particular passion for musical theatre."
She added: "I am especially excited for Too Darn Hot, as I have performed this number myself as a sequence at the All England Finals, so it holds a special place in my history as a dancer!"
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As both director and choreographer, Gina said she is excited by the flashy visual aesthetics of the show, which promises to dazzle the audience with grand Shakespearean costumes and colourful ensemble dance sequences.
The director and actors have also taken the opportunity to poke fun at the underlying sexism of typical 1950s relationships, and tackle the misogyny in the script and songs.
Actress April Perrot, who plays Lilli/Katherine, said: "It is an opportunity for comedy at the expense of misogynistic attitudes, rather than in support of them."
The show is being performed at the ADC Theatre - the Cambridge University student theatre that helped launch the careers of famous actors including Emma Thompson, Rachel Weisz and Tom Hiddleston.
Kiss Me, Kate! is being performed for a limited run from March 15 to 25.
Tickets can be booked online at www.adctheatre.com/kate or by calling the box office on 01223 300085.
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