Kiss Me Kate at Les Théâtres de la Ville de Luxembourg, Grand Théâtre

Cole Porter’s dazzling musical Kiss Me, Kate comes to the Grand Théâtre in a highly anticipated new collaboration of this much loved production. David Charles Abell and Seann Alderking worked laboriously in recent years, producing a definitive critical edition of the score. Under the musical direction of David Charles Abell, this is as authentic as any of Porter’s 1948 productions on Broadway and will feature rare material that hasn’t been heard for more than fifty years.

With a libretto filled with fast-witted American humour and a score of well-known tunes, Kiss Me, Kate is energetic, vibrant and filled with passion. As a show within a show, it is fun, but complicated. The cast of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew is rehearsing for the opening, that evening. Passions run high and complicated relationships and situations prevail amongst cast members, both on and offstage. Pivotal to the play is the relationship of egotistical actor and producer Fred and his ex-wife, Lili, who play Petruchio and Kate in the production of Shakespeare’s play. In both the real world and onstage, they bicker and romance in a “battle of the sexes”. In the final moments of the play they miraculously and passionately reconcile.

This collaboration between Théâtre du Châtelet of Paris and Les Théâtres de la Ville de Luxembourg, and the Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg brings together a host of unique expertise both musically and artistically. Artistic Director Jean-Luc Choplin is renowned for his unique treatment of musicals, so this show will be worthy of Hollywood in the thirties and forties; sumptuous, excessive and a grand spectacle.

Director Lee Blakeley is known for his grand staging of international operas and his boldness is guaranteed to shine through; Luxembourg audiences will be familiar with his work on Il Turco in Italia. Set designer Charles Edwards and costume designer Brigitte Rieffenstuel worked the visual magic seen at Châtelet, giving the show a splendor and glamour inspired by mid twentieth century cinema. Choreographer Nick Winston embraces challenges and complexities; by merging swing, lindy hop, tap and classical dance, something memorable results.