Kiss Me Kate is a rousing, toe-tapping classic, one of Cole Porter’s greatest musicals, which in 1948 won
the first Tony Award for a musical comedy.
The revival of the show at Studio 54 stars Kelli O’Hara, who lights up the stage in an impressive Tony-worthy performance. Will Chase stars as her ex-husband and co-star of the play within a play that carries the plot. The two are perfectly combative, funny and commanding as they carry on their constant feuding both onstage and backstage.
Director Scott Ellis brilliantly integrates the story, which is based on William Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew, and the book by Sam and Bella Spewack. The show is greatly enhanced by David Rockwell’s sets, and noteworthy performances come from Corbin Bleu, a tap-dancing sensation, and Stephanie Styles, making an impressive Broadway debut.
But the show’s highlight is its knock-it-out-of-the-ballpark score, with classic Cole Porter songs such as “Another Opening, Another Show,” “Too Darn Hot,” “So Much in Love,” “Why Can’t I Behave,” and “Always True to You in My Fashion.”
Like a fine wine, Kiss Me Kate has aged wonderfully. I highly recommend this show for the entire family.
