Review: KISS ME, KATE at Alhambra Theatre And Dining

"Another Op'nin, Another Show" at The Alhambra Theatre and Dining. Kiss Me, Kate portrays the story of a company performing Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare. This company is a complete mess, with different relationships bringing their problems to the stage, or gangsters requiring money from the actors. With so many different story lines mixing throughout the performance, one would worry that the audience could get lost. However, the show is so wonderfully written and portrayed, that the audience was left laughing and awestruck after each number.

The chemistry between the entire cast is strikingly apparent. First, the main characters Fred Graham, performed by Christopher Sanders, and Lilli Vanessi, performed by Traci Bair, are extravagant together. Sanders played the annoying ex-husband very well, relentlessly tormenting Bair's character with his quick wit. In turn, Bair portrays the very annoyed ex-wife and brings her annoyance to the stage as Katharine in Taming of the Shrew, specifically in the number "Kiss Me, Kate" at the end of Act 1. Another set of characters who had significant chemistry were the Gangsters, played by Joshua McKinney and Joey Swift. As they enter in the beginning of the show, the audience believes they will be dangerous mobsters. However, in the second act, it becomes apparent that they are amazingly witty and comical, even dressing up as jesters in Medieval Times to ensure Vanessi stays on stage. Their greatest number was "Brush Up Your Shakespeare" as they continue to perform with perfectly choreographed steps, though they are ushered off stage multiple times. Their comedic timing and banter left audiences giggling throughout the performance.

The entire cast was extremely talented. Sanders voice was marvelous. Every number he was included in, his voice stood out. The audience really responded to Sanders' number "Where is the Life I Late Led". Not only did it showcase his voice, but also left the audience laughing. Bair not only has an astounding voice but was incredibly funny. Both these qualities were highlighted in her number "I Hate Men". She left the audience laughing after the "Kiss Me, Kate" number with her various facial expressions and physical comedy, such as throwing the flower vases at Fred Graham. Another showstopper was Lauren Robinson who performed as Lois Lane. Robinson's voice was superb, especially in "Tom, Dick, or Harry", where she plays Bianca Minola in Taming of the Shrew. The ensemble was also absolutely stunning. I am always amazed at how well they use their limited space on stage for their dance numbers, and this show was no different. Each character added a special element to the whole piece.

Kiss Me, Kate is a wonderful and entertaining show. This show is a must see! Audiences will be left laughing and stunned at the talent and chemistry each actor and actress portrays. Kiss Me, Kate will be performed at the Alhambra now through September 9.

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