A Sly Start

The production's opening prologue was so convincing that on more than one occasion, members of the audience left the auditorium to call the police! Once the house-lights went down, a drunk in the audience - later revealed to be Christopher Sly - started a commotion, then rampaged onto the stage and destroyed the picturesque set.

The rest of the play was Sly's dream - with actor Jonathan Pryce doubling as Petruchio and Paola Dionisotti as Katherina. The action took place with the initial scenery ripped back to reveal bare walls and metalwork.

Cruel Intentions

Petruchio then systematically set about demolishing Katherina, much to the discomfort of the audience. The production avoided tenderness and love, instead focusing on the uglier aspects of the plot and surrounding those with farcial business. Katherina (Paola Dionisotti) delivered her speech of wifely duty in a toneless, lifeless voice. Petruchio (Jonathan Pryce) looked ashamed of what he had done but this did not stop him pocketing his winnings on his way out.

Award Winning

The brilliantly inventive production won Michael Bogdanov the 1979 Olivier Award for Best Director.