Jaybird Productions' All-Female TAMING OF THE SHREW Now Playing

JaybiRD Productions is thrilled to announce the opening and run of a rare event in Toronto community theatre: The All-Female Taming of the Shrew. The show features sixteen talented actresses (many playing multiple roles) in an innovative venue in Toronto's increasingly vibrant east end.

Taming of the Shrew is one of Shakespeare's funniest, most popular, most oft performed - and yet most controversial - comedies. The issue of 'taming' an adult woman is deeply uncomfortable whenconsidered through our current cultural lens. JacquelineBurke, JaybiRD Productions' Artistic Director launched this project because she was interested in removing gender from the mix and focusing on the resulting power issues. "We were interested in exploring this play without reference to gender," says Burke. "Is the show more or less comfortable to watch? Is gender dominance the core issue of the play? Or is the issue of power more germane?"

All the seriousness aside, Taming of the Shrew is funny. "We have been lucky enough to gather a group of comedic actors dedicated to presenting an irreverent, accessible, and hilarious show," says Burke. The group has eschewed a standard theatre, opting for a storefront on the Danforth in which they will play the show fully in the round. Jaybird is even offering a 'bring your own seat' price, allowing the audience to save $2.00 a ticket. "Might save us on renting chairs," says Burke, with a smile.

The All-Female Taming of the Shrew will open November 14, at 1803 Danforth Avenue, a short walk east from Coxwell Subway Station. Parking is on street. Show dates are November 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 at 8:00 PM and November 17, 24, 30 at 2:00 PM. Ticket prices: Adults $22 Students/Seniors $15. Bring your own chair or pillow and get a $2 discount! Group rates available. Tickets are available online at allfemaletamingoftheshrew.eventbrite.ca, or save the web processing fees by emailing info@jaybirdproductions.ca, or by calling 647-292-0210.