Ruth Leon recommends…The Taming of the Shrew – Les Ballets de Monte Carlo
Ruth Leon recommendsThe Taming of the Shrew – Les Ballets de Monte Carlo
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Very funny and lighthearted (and very well danced by the Monte Carlo company), choreographer Jean-Christophe Maillot doesn’t deviate too far from Shakespeare’s story while finding some new things to say about the fractious relationships between men and women in which, contrary to Shakespeare’s vision, the women nearly always end up on top.
Although largely humorous with a healthy sense of irony, the ballet tackles a fundamentally serious theme: the search for one’s better half. In a world where authenticity is eroded by convention, finding the perfect partner is no small feat, and Shakespeare’s play remains as relevant as ever. Rejecting male dominance within the couple unit, Jean-Christophe Maillot chose to focus on what’s vital in a romantic relationship.
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Sorry. I was lucky enough to see the legendary Stuttgart production of Cranko’s version, with Marcia Haydée and Richard Cragun. Aside from some of the most exciting choreography I ever saw, it managed to stick to Shakespeare’s take on the story. Think I will pass on this.