About the work
The Taming of the Shrew is a full-length narrative ballet by John Cranko, premiered in 1969 by the Stuttgart Ballet. The music after Domenico Scarlatti was arranged by Kurt-Heinz Stolze. The work is based on Shakespeare's comedy of the same name and is among Cranko's greatest successes.
Plot
In Renaissance Padua, the wealthy Baptista can marry off his gentle daughter Bianca only once her older, shrewish sister Katharina is wed. The dashing Petruchio takes up the challenge and courts—in his impetuous, headstrong way—the unruly Katharina. In a comic battle of the sexes full of cunning, defiance, and gradual rapprochement, the two "tame" each other, until resistance becomes genuine, equal affection. In parallel, three suitors court the gentle Bianca.
Cultural significance
The Taming of the Shrew is a gem of comic narrative ballet and demonstrates Cranko's extraordinary talent for translating character and humour into pure dance. The demanding pas de deux of Katharina and Petruchio, marked by wit and passion, are among the most rewarding roles in the repertoire. The work cemented the worldwide fame of the Stuttgart Ballet and is still danced by major companies around the globe today.