Whether it be the psychedelic ’60s, the Fascist ’30s, or good Queen Bess’s own age of doublet, hose, and sword, Shakespeare Kelowna Theatre Society hath long delighted audiences with bold and imaginative interpretations of the Bard’s immortal works. For more than thirty years, we’ve proven that “the play’s the thing” — in any time, in any style!
Our mission is to bring forth theatre that is lively, thought-provoking, and merrily accessible to all. We offer artists the chance to work with a company that prizes high production values, strong work ethic, and boundless creative spirit. So come, lend us your ears — and your laughter — as we celebrate the wit, wonder, and timeless humanity of William Shakespeare.
The play’s the thing!
AUDITION NOTICE
The Taming of the Shrew
Shakespeare Kelowna is excited to be presenting The Taming of the Shrew as our outdoor summer play in 2026, adapted and directed by Tanya Laing Gahr.
Setting: Regency-era Padua (think Jane Austen and Bridgerton)
The play
The Taming of the Shrew is a comedy written in 1590-92 by William Shakespeare. It was last staged by Shakespeare Kelowna in 2000.
About the Production
This bold new adaptation reimagines The Taming of the Shrew as a feminist, Regency- era battle of wits. Shakespeare’s original text remains 95% intact but is reimagined to explore the mutual transformation of two fiercely intelligent individuals—Katherina and Petruchio—as they navigate the constraints of identity, power, and how society expects them to behave. It tells a story that shows strength is not based on domination, but in vulnerability, wit, and the courage to defy convention.
Production Details
• Producer: Shakespeare Kelowna
• Director: Tanya Laing Gahr
• Performance Dates: July 15–25, 2026
• Venue: SpearHead Winery, Kelowna, BC
• Rehearsals Begin: May 5, 2026
• Rehearsal Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays 6.30p-9.30pm and Sundays 11:00 am–4:00 pm
• Tech Week: July 8–14, 2026
Audition Information
• Audition Dates: 11am-3pm Saturday and Sunday 2-4pm January 10th and 11th, and Saturday and Sunday 17th and 18th 2026
• Location: East Kelowna Hall, 2074 East Kelowna Road
• Prepare one Shakespearean comedic monologue, 1–2 minutes in length (does not have to be from The Taming of the Shrew)
• Be prepared to read sides from the script (provided at audition).
• Some roles require physical comedy and verbal agility; expect movement-based work in callbacks.
• Please note any dialect, dance, or musical ability.
What We’re Looking For:
• Comfort with physicality and improvisation
• Comfort with the language and articulation
• Openness to feminist interpretation
• Chemistry — this play thrives on verbal and romantic electricity
To Book an Audition:
Email Noelle at noilly281@gmail.com with your preferred audition day(s) and a brief performance résumé.