The Taming

by Lauren Gunderson

Shakespeare and Company

May 27 - July 30, 2016

"I cannot recall having such a good time with a political diatribe in my long and involved life, not even when working, years and years ago, for Bella Abzug back in New York City...Under the clearly clinical guidance of director Nicole Ricciardi, this trio of players maintains a dynamic range of highly specific movements, vocal work and interactions as they learn to 'lead with greed, baby.' That this play works so very well is due in no small part to the absolute control the director has maintained over her actors. I don’t usually say this so early in the summer season, but given the opportunity I would gladly revisit this play for a second chance to catch a glimpse of these people in their situation. I had that good a time." - J. Peter Bergman, The Berkshire Edge

"Ricciardi has directed them to perfection, making boundless use of their comic talents...Marvelous writing, superb acting. Go have fun at this play." – The Berkshire Record

"Loosely inspired by his misogynistic comedy about that Shrew, it’s the smartest, funniest show I’ve seen in a long time. I’ve never laughed so hard while thinking so much." - Chris Rohmann, Valley Advocate

"The actors are well served by Nicole Ricciardi who has staged the play with verve and discipline. What could be a hodgepodge of schtick and poorly timed laugh lines is a controlled, disciplined production that intensifies and elevates playwright Gunderson's multi-leveled script. The Taming is a funny and provocative show, filled with laughs, terrific performances and sharp political commentary." - Macey Levin, The Lakeville Journal

"Wonderfully directed by Nicole Ricciardi the three fantastic females in this cast work together with great chemistry and comedic timing. If you find yourself in the Berkshires and in need of a good laugh go on over to Shakespeare and Company and enjoy this 90 minute hilariously relevant play." - Angelica Potter, Onstage

"...an often hilarious romp across the liberal-conservative divide...The Taming is an uproarious good time." - Steve Barnes, Times Union