Musical Spotlight: Kiss Me Kate

Curtains rise with excitement. A company breathes together. The pit plays a vamp, and then a trumpet sounds as the cast sings, “Another op’nin’, another show!” This is how Kiss Me, Kate begins, immersing us in the world of backstage life. Unlike the recent spotlight on a two-actor show, this one is big, dance-heavy, and infused with a Shakespeare twist. The laughs come quickly, the romance is sizzling, and the music flows beautifully.

At its core, Kiss Me, Kate is about putting on a show. Cole Porter wrote the music, and Samuel and Bella Spewack created the book. It tells a musical version of The Taming of the Shrew wrapped inside a messy love story between the show’s stars, Fred Graham and Lilli Vanessi. Their onstage arguments spill into their real lives, and their offstage chemistry enhances every scene (Wikipedia).

The plot centers on Fred, a proud actor-producer, and Lilli, a talented leading lady. They once loved each other but now exchange witty insults. They also play Petruchio and Katharine in the musical, which drives their conflict. Mistakes happen, a bouquet lands in the wrong hands, and Lilli’s vow of revenge in “I Hate Men” adds to the fun. Meanwhile, Lois Lane, a spirited chorus star, balances love and ambition while her boyfriend, Bill Calhoun, accidentally signs Fred’s name on a gambling IOU, leading to comic trouble when two gangsters arrive onstage during “Brush Up Your Shakespeare,” a standout number (Wikipedia).

Kiss Me, Kate premiered in late 1948 and became a sensation. The original Broadway production ran for over a thousand performances, featuring Alfred Drake as Fred/Petruchio and Patricia Morison as Lilli/Kate. Choreographer Hanya Holm’s clean movement style is still studied today. Notably, this show was the first to win the Tony Award for Best Musical, marking its place in Broadway history (Wikipedia).

Porter’s score is a treasure for singers and educators alike. “Another Op’nin’, Another Show” sets the tone, while “Wunderbar” brings old-world charm. “So in Love” captures deep emotion, often featured in recitals. “Always True to You in My Fashion” showcases clever lyrics, while “Tom, Dick or Harry” is playful. “Too Darn Hot” ignites Act Two with energy, perfect for a talented ensemble. And “Brush Up Your Shakespeare” keeps audiences laughing until the very end (Wikipedia).

The show has seen impressive revivals. A notable production in 1999, directed by Michael Blakemore and starring Brian Stokes Mitchell and Marin Mazzie, won multiple Tony Awards. It layered vocal richness and restored the show's vibrance for modern audiences (Tony Awards).

In 2019, the Roundabout Theatre Company offered a fresh perspective. Directed by Scott Ellis and featuring Kelli O’Hara and Will Chase, this revival included choreography by Warren Carlyle and book adjustments by Amanda Green to enhance the gender dynamics while preserving Porter’s brilliance. This approach ensured that both the humor and respect between the leads flourished (Roundabout).

Kiss Me, Kate also made its way to film. The 1953 MGM version, shot in 3D, starred Ann Miller and showcased a young Bob Fosse in the number “From This Moment On,” illustrating the show’s pivotal blend of stage craft and cinematic flair (Wikipedia).

What makes this show still resonate today? The tight form allows us to see artists coping with stress while creating art. Porter’s music brings joy through clever rhymes and deep feelings, all while mirroring the timeless battle of the sexes in Shakespeare’s original story. Backstage scenes feel relatable anywhere, from school theatres to grand stages, and the onstage moments dazzle with vibrant costumes and choreography.

As you plan for Winter 2026, a few choices can help your production shine. Look for a strong baritone to be Fred and a dynamic soprano for Lilli. Their chemistry is vital, as the heart of the show lies in their playful conflicts. The ensemble should be energetic, especially during “Too Darn Hot,” which demands athleticism and harmony. Remember Hanya Holm’s classic lines while incorporating modern grooves. Also, be mindful of audience views on gender issues. The Roundabout adaptation shows that thoughtful adjustments can maintain humor while promoting respect (Roundabout).

Careful orchestration balances romance and energy. Strings can elevate “So in Love,” while brass can power “Too Darn Hot.” Ensure there’s a steady rhythm in dance-heavy sections. Clear maps for onstage traffic will help manage quick scene changes.

Performers can explore the text by focusing on Porter's rhythms before adding musical notes. Practice makes perfect. Engage with the Shrew scenes for diction and tone, then soften it for backstage moments. For comedic songs like “Brush Up Your Shakespeare,” timing is essential; the words should carry the humor. Educators can pair songs with Shakespeare’s text to highlight how both forms convey ideas musically.

Kiss Me, Kate remains a beacon of the backstage musical. It balances humor, heart, and dance in a cohesive style. This classic continues to inspire performances, making artists rethink onstage partnerships. Each season brings fresh ways to celebrate this timeless story.

“Another op’nin’, another show!”