The Taming of the Shrew
Bingley Arts Centre

Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew was the first play performed at Bingley Little Theatre when it was formed 60 years ago.

So it is apt that the theatre company chose to perform this comedy as it celebrates its diamond jubilee.

One of Shakespeare's earliest comedies, it tells of a wealthy merchant Baptista (David Helliwell, a last-minute stand-in, although you'd never have known) who wants to marry off his two daughters, Kate and Bianca. While the gentle Bianca (Louise Hodgson) has many suitors, no-one wants to marry the outspoken and fiery Kate.

Anna Yeadon was strong as a tiny but defiant Kate, eventually starved into submission by her husband, Petruchio. Unforeseen circumstances meant director Jonathan Scott, currently BLT's chairman, stepped into this lead role at the last minute. Hopefully he'll need the book less as the week goes on.

Julian Freeman was great as Grumio, Petruchio's servant. Even when not centre stage he was in character.

There was a helping of farce towards the end and a powerfully delivered speech from Kate who had turned from a woman who knew her own mind into an obedient and dutiful wife. She may be just playing the game for her survival.

The play is full of twists and turns, roles are reversed and characters are not who they seem.

Runs until Saturday.