NEWS FEED
With only weeks to go to for the performance of hit musical ‘Kiss Me Kate’, Wimborne Musical Theatre was still without a leading man.
The role of Fred was vacant as the search continued for an actor who could not only get to grips with the difficult Shakespearean tongue, but also had the depth and experience to sing and act as a pivotal central character to the show.
Then in the nick of time, along came Mark Ward, a musical theatre veteran who in his 30 or so years has performed with many groups including Bournemouth Operatic Society and Christchurch Gilbert & Sullivan Society.
A man, fortunate to have played many parts, he said, “Over 20 years ago BOS performed ‘Kiss Me Kate’ and I played Bill/Lucentio. I loved the show and always yearned for a chance to play Fred, but no opportunities arose.”
When Julie Gower who is playing the female lead Lilli contacted Mark, he jumped at the chance, and the fact that he was learning lines for another production didn’t phase him either. “I am grateful to Sarah Oliver and Ieuan Davies at Christchurch G&S to accommodate me sharing the rehearsal time with the role of Pirate King I am performing in their production of Pirates of Penzance.”
‘Kiss Me Kate,’ is the musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew’. It is a blend of operetta and musical comedy, with music and lyrics by Cole Porter. A play within a play, it features a group of actors at a theatre in Baltimore on the Opening Night of ‘The Shrew’.
“We’re going to make a helluva show out of ‘Kiss Me Kate’. Break a leg!” added Mark.
Wimborne Musical Theatre will be performing ‘Kiss Me Kate’ from Tuesday 14 June to Saturday 18 June at the Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne. To book tickets call the box office on 01202 885566 or visit www.wimbornemusical.co.uk
