The Ultimate Guide to Kiss Me Kate
Few musicals embody the fun, charm, and wit of Broadway’s golden age as perfectly as Kiss Me Kate. This extraordinary show blends the chaotic energy of backstage drama with the timeless humour of Shakespearean comedy, creating a theatrical masterpiece that has captivated audiences for over seven decades. Premiering in 1948, it quickly became a sensation, praised for its clever script, sparkling dialogue, and show-stopping musical numbers. From its very first performance, Kiss Me Kate established itself as one of Broadway’s most iconic productions and has remained a cornerstone of musical theatre history.
At its heart, Kiss Me Kate is more than just a musical; it’s a celebration of the art of theatre itself. The show offers audiences a peek behind the curtain into the frenetic world of a theatre company as they attempt to stage a production of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. With its brilliantly interwoven storylines—one following the play’s narrative and the other showcasing the personal dramas of the cast and crew—Kiss Me Kate manages to strike a perfect balance between comedy, romance, and high-stakes tension. The result is a vibrant, multi-layered production that continues to resonate with both seasoned theatre lovers and newcomers alike.
The enduring appeal of Kiss Me Kate lies in its combination of timeless themes and unforgettable characters. Its sharp, witty writing brings Fred and Lilli’s fiery romance to life, while the antics of Lois, Bill, and the bumbling gangsters provide a delightful dose of comedic relief. Cole Porter’s dazzling score is the cherry on top, delivering some of Broadway’s most beloved songs, including “Too Darn Hot,” “Brush Up Your Shakespeare,” and “Another Op’nin’, Another Show.” These melodies, paired with the show’s lively choreography and heartfelt moments, ensure that Kiss Me, Kate is a production that stays with audiences long after the final curtain falls.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into every aspect of Kiss Me, Kate. We’ll unpack its clever storyline, explore its rich connections to Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, and introduce you to the iconic characters that make it so unforgettable. You’ll also learn about the role Erewash Musical Society has played in bringing this classic to life, highlighting how dedicated local theatre groups keep their legacy alive. To top it all off, we’ll share some fascinating behind-the-scenes facts about the production and provide a full list of the songs that have made this musical a favourite for generations.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Kiss Me Kate or discovering it for the first time, this guide is your ultimate resource for understanding why this show has earned its place in theatre history. Join us as we celebrate the wit, glamour, and timeless appeal of a musical that has truly stood the test of time.
What is the Story of Kiss Me, Kate the Musical?
At its core, Kiss Me Kate is a play within a play, offering a clever and comedic glimpse into the delightful chaos of putting on a stage production. The musical’s story revolves around a theatre company preparing to perform Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. However, the drama among the cast and crew quickly spirals out of control, mirroring the fiery relationships in Shakespeare’s classic tale. This dual-layered storytelling creates a rich, entertaining narrative filled with wit, romance, and mayhem.
The central focus is on Fred Graham, the show’s charismatic director and lead actor, who takes on the role of Petruchio. Fred’s counterpart on and off the stage is his ex-wife, the fiercely independent Lilli Vanessi, who plays the equally strong-willed Katharine. Their unresolved feelings for each other create sparks both onstage and backstage, resulting in biting banter, explosive arguments, and moments of undeniable tenderness. As they step into their roles as Petruchio and Katharine, their real-life animosity often overlaps with Shakespeare’s tale of feuding lovers, blurring the line between performance and reality.
Brush up your Shakespeare
Adding to the theatrical mayhem is a subplot involving Lois Lane, a flirtatious and ambitious actress playing Bianca, and her boyfriend, Bill Calhoun, a charming but unreliable performer. Bill’s reckless gambling lands him in trouble when he signs an IOU in Fred’s name, leading to the arrival of two bumbling gangsters. Mistakenly believing Fred owes them money, the gangsters embed themselves in the production to ensure their debt is repaid. Their comedic antics provide some of the musical’s most memorable moments, including the hilarious song “Brush Up Your Shakespeare,” where they attempt to wax lyrical about the Bard’s plays.
The opening night of the show becomes a chaotic whirlwind as the personal conflicts of the cast threaten to unravel the production. Lilli discovers Fred’s romantic involvement with Lois, escalating the tension between the ex-spouses. Meanwhile, Bill’s gambling troubles create further complications, and the gangsters’ persistent meddling adds another layer of hilarity. Despite the turmoil, the cast perseveres, delivering a performance filled with mistaken identities, romantic squabbles, and laugh-out-loud moments.
Ultimately, Kiss Me Kate is as much about reconciliation as it is about rivalry. Fred and Lilli’s fiery relationship evolves throughout the play, with both characters rediscovering their affection for each other amidst the chaos. Meanwhile, the rest of the cast navigates their challenges, bringing Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew to life with humour, energy, and charm.
The brilliance of Kiss Me Kate lies in its seamless blend of high-stakes backstage drama with the classic themes of Shakespearean comedy. This multi-layered storytelling offers something for everyone, whether it’s the fiery romance of Fred and Lilli, the lighthearted antics of Lois and Bill, or the slapstick humour of the gangsters. With its vibrant characters, sharp dialogue, and show-stopping musical numbers, Kiss Me, Kate is a celebration of the theatrical world in all its chaotic glory.
Is Kiss Me Kate Based on The Taming of the Shrew?
Yes, Kiss Me Kate is deeply rooted in Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, but it takes the classic play in a bold and modern direction. While Shakespeare’s original work unfolds in Renaissance Italy, Kiss Me Kate cleverly reimagines the tale in the vibrant world of a 1940s theatre company. This setting not only updates the story for contemporary audiences but also adds a delightful layer of self-awareness, blending the themes of Shakespearean drama with the lively chaos of backstage life.
The musical’s foundation in The Taming of the Shrew allows it to explore the timeless themes of gender roles, love, and power dynamics. However, Kiss Me Kate doesn’t merely retell Shakespeare’s story—it mirrors it. The fiery relationship between Fred Graham and Lilli Vanessi, the show’s lead actors, parallels the combative romance of Petruchio and Katharine, the characters they portray on stage. As their real-life conflicts spill into their performances, the play within the play becomes a fascinating study of art imitating life.
This ingenious interplay of onstage and offstage drama was crafted by Sam and Bella Spewack, the husband-and-wife writing team behind the musical’s book. Their goal was to draw out the humorous and poignant parallels between Shakespeare’s work and the unpredictable world of show business. In doing so, they infused Kiss Me, Kate with a modern sensibility, tackling issues like professional ambition, romantic rivalry, and the challenges of collaboration. These elements give the musical its unique charm, making it feel fresh and relatable while still honouring its Shakespearean roots.
Adding to the magic is Cole Porter’s dazzling score, which breathes new life into the story. Porter’s songs capture the humour, romance, and wit of both the Shakespearean tale and the backstage antics. Numbers like “Wunderbar” and “So in Love” bring depth to Fred and Lilli’s complex relationship, while comedic hits like “Brush Up Your Shakespeare” and “Too Darn Hot” add energy and light-heartedness. Porter’s sophisticated lyrics and lively melodies strike the perfect balance, elevating Kiss Me Kate into a celebration of both Shakespearean brilliance and Broadway’s golden age.
What makes Kiss Me Kate so special is its ability to weave Shakespeare’s timeless themes into a distinctly 20th-century context. By setting the story in a 1940s theatre company, the musical offers audiences a fresh perspective on The Taming of the Shrew, highlighting the enduring relevance of its exploration of love, ambition, and identity. At the same time, it honours the theatrical tradition that Shakespeare himself championed, creating a rich, layered production that speaks to audiences across generations.
Whether you’re a fan of Shakespeare’s original play or new to the world of musical theatre, Kiss Me Kate offers the best of both worlds. It captures the essence of The Taming of the Shrew while adding a touch of Broadway glamour, ensuring it remains a timeless masterpiece.
What Makes the Characters in Kiss Me Kate So Memorable?
One of the reasons Kiss Me Kate has remained so beloved is its colourful cast of characters. Each one brings something unique to the story, whether it’s wit, charm, or laugh-out-loud humour:
- Fred Graham/Petruchio: Fred is a larger-than-life director who often lets his ego get the better of him. His love-hate relationship with Lilli is the driving force of the musical, and his confidence adds a touch of flair to his role as Petruchio.
- Lilli Vanessi/Katharine: Lilli is strong-willed and quick-witted, making her the perfect match for Fred. As Katharine, she delivers some of the play’s most powerful moments, showing both her fiery temperament and her softer side.
- Lois Lane/Bianca: Lois is a bubbly, ambitious actress who isn’t afraid to use her charms to get what she wants. Her playful nature makes her a delightful contrast to the more intense Fred and Lilli.
- Bill Calhoun/Lucentio: Bill is charming but irresponsible, often getting himself into trouble with his bad decisions. Despite his flaws, his devotion to Lois adds warmth to the story.
- The Gangsters: These bumbling debt collectors steal the show with their hilarious antics. Their performance of “Brush Up Your Shakespeare” is a comedic highlight that audiences never forget.
Is Kiss Me Kate a Good Musical?
Absolutely—Kiss Me Kate is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicals ever written. Its masterful blend of humour, romance, and show-stopping musical numbers makes it a joy for audiences of all ages, from seasoned theatre enthusiasts to newcomers exploring the magic of musical theatre for the first time. With its sharp wit, memorable characters, and unforgettable songs, it continues to be celebrated as a shining example of Broadway’s golden age.
One of the musical’s many strengths is its ability to entertain on multiple levels. From the moment the curtain rises on “Another Op’nin’, Another Show,” audiences are immersed in the high-energy, behind-the-scenes world of a theatre company. Cole Porter’s dazzling score sets the tone perfectly, capturing the excitement and chaos of putting on a show. Songs like the sultry “Too Darn Hot” showcase the passionate undercurrent of the story, while comedic gems like “Brush Up Your Shakespeare” add a playful touch, keeping audiences engaged and delighted throughout.
Critics and fans alike have praised Kiss Me Kate for its clever writing and engaging performances. Sam and Bella Spewack’s witty book strikes a perfect balance between Shakespearean elegance and contemporary humour, creating a narrative that feels both timeless and fresh. Fred and Lilli’s fiery dynamic, paired with the antics of Lois, Bill, and the gangsters, ensures there’s never a dull moment on stage. The intricate interplay of onstage and backstage drama adds depth to the story, making it as intellectually satisfying as it is entertaining.
The musical’s accolades speak for themselves. Kiss Me, Kate was the first-ever recipient of the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1949, a testament to its groundbreaking success and artistic excellence. This achievement set a high standard for the musicals that followed and solidified its place as a cornerstone of theatre history. Over the years, it has been revived countless times, with each new production bringing its own unique flair while staying true to the charm of the original. Notable revivals, including the 2019 Broadway production starring Kelli O’Hara and Will Chase, have breathed fresh life into the show, proving its continued relevance and appeal.
What sets Kiss Me Kate apart is its ability to resonate across generations. The themes of love, ambition, and reconciliation are universal, while the vibrant characters and dynamic score ensure it remains a delight to watch. Whether it’s Fred and Lilli’s fiery exchanges, the gangsters’ comedic escapades, or the dazzling choreography accompanying Porter’s iconic songs, there’s something in Kiss Me Kate for everyone to enjoy.
In short, Kiss Me Kate is more than just a good musical—it’s a masterpiece. Its timeless appeal, clever storytelling, and spectacular music have cemented its place as one of Broadway’s all-time greats, making it a must-see for anyone who loves theatre.
The Songs of Kiss Me Kate
Kiss Me Kate features a collection of memorable songs that showcase Cole Porter’s incredible talent. Here’s a list of the songs from the original production:
- Another Op’nin’, Another Show
- Why Can’t You Behave?
- Wunderbar
- So in Love
- We Open in Venice
- Tom, Dick or Harry
- I’ve Come to Wive It Wealthily in Padua
- I Hate Men
- Too Darn Hot
- Where Is the Life That Late I Led?
- Always True to You in My Fashion
- Brush Up Your Shakespeare
- From This Moment On
Fascinating Facts About Kiss Me Kate
- Kiss Me Kate was inspired by the real-life relationship between Broadway actors Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne, known for their passionate and fiery dynamic.
- Cole Porter considered this his greatest musical, and it revitalised his career after a period of creative struggles.
- The show won the first-ever Tony Award for Best Musical in 1949.
- Kiss Me, Kate has been revived on Broadway four times, most recently in 2019, starring Kelli O’Hara and Will Chase.
- The song “Too Darn Hot” was initially controversial for its suggestive lyrics but became one of the show’s most iconic numbers.
How Erewash Musical Society Has Brought Kiss Me Kate to Life
Erewash Musical Society has a proud history of staging classic musicals, and Kiss Me Kate is no exception. The society first performed the show in 1975, bringing together a talented local cast to capture the energy and charm of this Broadway favourite.
The society revisited the musical in 1999, proving its enduring popularity for both performers and audiences. These productions showcased Erewash Musical Society’s commitment to delivering high-quality performances and celebrating the magic of musical theatre.
Through their dedication and hard work, the society has kept classics like Kiss Me, Kate alive for new generations of theatre lovers. Their performances highlight the timeless appeal of the show and its ability to entertain and inspire.
To learn more about Erewash Musical Society’s past productions, including their performances of Kiss Me, Kate, check out our past productions list.
The Enduring Legacy of Kiss Me Kate
Kiss Me, Kate is more than just a musical—it’s a celebration of theatre itself. Its lively mix of Shakespearean influence, romantic comedy, and show-stopping numbers continues to draw audiences to this day. With its timeless themes of love, rivalry, and forgiveness, it’s a production that feels as fresh and exciting now as it did in 1948.
Whether you’re watching it for the first time or revisiting an old favourite, Kiss Me, Kate is a must-see for anyone who loves musical theatre.
