SINGAPORE – Any production that invites its audience to watch their show lying down under the beautiful night sky at Fort Canning Park gets our stamp of approval. The fact that said production is Shakespeare’s Globe’s excellent interpretation of The Taming Of The Shrew just makes the experience that much sweeter. (Small tip: Bring a mat and cushions to prevent sore bottoms.)

The Shakespeare’s Globe production is not one you should catch if you are looking for a lavish set and opulent costumes or props. Directed by Joe Murphy, the play presents an all-female cast of eight – some in more than one role – on an Elizabethan-style, bare essentials stage. There is a slight modernist touch to the whole affair, so don’t expect to see the cast donning “ye olde English garb”.

If you’re not already familiar with the Bard’s comedy, The Taming Of The Shrew tells the story of a wealthy lord in Padua who insists that his eldest daughter, the tempestuous Katherina (Kate Lamb), must be married before her demure sister Bianca (Olivia Morgan) can marry one of her many suitors. In comes the gold-digging Petruchio (Leah Whitaker), who jumps at the opportunity to woo Kate, and eventually “tame” her into obedience.

Because of its minimalist approach, the show relies almost solely on the brilliance of Shakespeare’s text, and the group’s ability at understanding - and communicating - each line to the audience. This they did exceptionally well.

The result is that Taming is a spectacular display of action and wordplay, and a performance that is as funny as it is poignant. But then again, what else would we expect from Shakespeare?

Shakespeare’s Globe: The Taming Of The Shrew is on until Oct 13, 7.30pm, Fort Gate, Fort Canning Park. Tickets from S$68 to S$138 at Sistic.