The Rochester Community Players have been a staple of the local theater scene for nearly three decades, offering free outdoor Shakespeare productions each summer. This year, they tackle one of the bard’s most debated comedies, The Taming of the Shrew with a unique twist that bridges the 1590s with the dawn of the social media age.
The production opens on July 9 at the Highland Park Bowl and runs through July 25 inviting audiences to explore the timeless themes of love, identity, and authenticity in a modern context.
The Evolution of a Classic
The Taming of the Shrew has captivated audiences since its inception, inspiring numerous adaptations, from the 1967 film starring Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor to the 1999 teen rom-com Ten Things I Hate about You. However, the play’s exploration of gender dynamics and relationships has sparked contemporary debates.
Director Jonathan Lowery acknowledges the challenges of presenting a 400-year-old play in 2026, stating, “Our society and culture have changed completely in regard to subjects like misogyny and domestic abuse, and this story looks very different now.” Lowery emphasizes that the production aims to highlight the play’s core message about seeking healthy and authentic relationships.
A Contemporary Love Story
The story follows Katharina and Petruchio an unlikely couple whose relationship is anything but conventional. Kayla Perconti who plays Katharina, describes her character as “a turbulent young woman, full of angst and anxieties, and resistant to the idea of being close to someone else.” Perconti believes the play is about Katharina finding someone who truly understands her.
Michael Riches portraying Petruchio, notes that his character evolves from being “assertive, self-centered, and obnoxious” to learning the value of partnership. Riches sees Petruchio’s journey as one of self-discovery and growth, ultimately realizing that he needs someone who can “take it and dish it out.”
Bringing the Play into the Digital Age
Lowery sets the production in 2015, a time he refers to as “the dawn of the social media age.” This contemporary backdrop allows the cast to incorporate modern elements, such as characters taking cell phone photos and videos, texting, and posting to Instagram. The audience can engage with the play through a live social media feed, viewing characters’ off-stage thoughts and feelings.
Lowery explains, “There were many golden opportunities for using social media in 2015.” He notes that while the characters benefit from social media, they also face the pressures of creating an authentic online social image.
The production promises to retain the rowdy physical comedy for which The Taming of the Shrew is famous. Lowery, a veteran of PUSH Physical Theatre ensures that the cast is almost constantly in motion, adding a dynamic layer to the performance.
Event Details
Rochester Community Players present Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew at 8 p.m. from Thursday, July 9 through Saturday, July 25 at Highland Park Bowl1137 South Avenue. The performance on July 18 will feature ASL deaf interpretation. Admission is free, with no shows on Monday or Tuesday nights. Any cancellations due to weather conditions will be posted on the organization’s website and social media channels.
