A Shrew-d Performance

Unique Theatre-Hike Allows Guests To “Culture-cise”

LISLE, IL (August 1, 2008) – Is it possible to tame a “wild” woman?

Find out as you witness the story of Katherine, an intelligent, outspoken, strong-willed and ill-tempered woman, and Petruchio, the man who sets out to tame her “wild” ways. See the story unfold as you hike through the magnificent trees of the Arboretum during The Taming of the Shrew, the August and September Theatre-Hike.

Travel back to a time when it was unacceptable for a woman to speak out against her husband. Watch the ambitious, boastful and proud Petruchio bend Katherine to his will, turning her from a “shrew” to a tame and obedient wife.

“The Taming of the Shrew remains wildly popular even in modern times because it deals with many issues that remain today, such as duties within a marriage and compromise,” says Marilyn Baysek, Arboretum Special Events Manager. “It’s a romantic farce full of disguises and role playing.”

Linda LeVeque, no stranger to the world of Theatre-Hikes, directs this performance. In the past she directed A Midsummer Night’s Dream and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. She also serves as an Artistic Associate for Pyewacket theater and has directed many of their plays, some which she received Joseph Jefferson Citation Awards. Michael Leslie, a veteran Theatre-Hike actor, takes on the role of Petruchio while Elizabeth MacDougald, who has performed in nine Theatre-Hike plays herself, portrays Katherine.
“A lot of people, including actors and directors, often forget that this story is not only a comedy, but also a love story. Linda LeVeque does an excellent job of understanding both of these elements and combining them to create a whimsical and entertaining tale.  The characters are lively, the conversations sharp, and the story explores a battle of wits between headstrong characters who are also very much in love.  It has been an incredible experience working with such a versatile and talented cast,” says Leslie.
Visitors taking advantage of this unique theatrical performance actually “culture-cise”: enjoying the cultural experience of a Shakespearian play and the healthful exercise of walking outdoors.

The Taming of the Shrew Theatre-Hike performances are weekends in August and September (through September 21) with low-impact Hikes on August 10 and September 14 and Dinner Theatre-Hikes occurring on August 17 and September 21. Saturday performances are 1 – 3:30 p.m. and Sunday performances are 3 – 5:30 p.m. Dinner Theatre-Hike performances are 4 – 8 p.m. Cost for regular Theatre-Hike performances are $19 for non-members and $13 for Arboretum members if purchased in advance and $22 on the day of show. Adult Dinner Theatre-Hike tickets are $47 for non-members and $40 for members; children are $30 for members and $37 for non-members. Order tickets at www.mortonarb.org, at the Visitor Information Desk or by phone at 630-725-2066.

The Morton Arboretum is an internationally recognized 1,700-acre outdoor museum with collections of 4,117 kinds of trees, shrubs, and other plants from around the world. The Arboretum's beautiful natural landscapes, gardens, research and education programs, and year-round family activities support its mission – the planting and conservation of trees and other plants for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world. Conveniently located at I-88 and Rte. 53 in Lisle, Illinois, the Arboretum is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time or sunset, whichever is earlier. The Children's Garden is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., March through October, and 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., November through February. Visit www.mortonarb.org or call 630-968-0074 to learn more.

Media Contact:    Gina Tedesco, 630-725-2103, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
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