The Oregon State University Theatre and Music department and director Cole Porter have created a masterpiece. "Kiss Me Kate" is full of spit-fire characters, brilliant props, and delightful costumes. The play takes place in Ford's Theater, Baltimore, on a summery day in 1948. The plot unfolds over the course of one day, as the performers experience various personal dramas in their attempt to put on a rendition of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew."

Actor Kimber Parker is enchanting; her acting is riveting and she portrays her roles, Lilli Vanessi and Katharine, in such a way that the audience can't help but be captivated by her presence. Moreover, her co-stars are incredibly talented as well. Specifically, actor Quentin Kirk is a brilliant Frederick C. Graham and Petruchio. He is feisty, witty, and altogether a lovable (if not always honorable) character. Future audiences will also love Steven Evans-Renteria and Phillip Hommes as the two gangsters forcing the play within a play to continue. They are thoroughly amusing and hilarious cronies.

The play is beautifully staged. The props and scenic design are wonderful. Additionally, the director allows the audience to actually watch scene transitions. Each time a scene changes, the audience observes stage hands move props in and out of sight. This allows the audience to truly participate in the meta-theatrical performance; we are allowed an inside look at the hard work behind a play. The actors' costumes are simply amazing as well. They are fitted in a myriad of playful, colorful ensembles that match the time period quite well.

Most importantly, the directors and cast took the play, which takes place in 1948, and added a modern twist that makes it accessible to modern audiences. There are a number of clever asides that provide criticism of the blatant misogyny in "Taming of the Shrew," as well as some wonderful acts of defiance on the part of Miss Lilli Vanessi as she battles her male co-star.

Overall, the play is a fantastic performance put on by our own Oregon State University Theatre and Music department! It's a great way to support OSU, and the play itself is fun and easy to follow.

Showtimes are March 3 through 5 at 7:30 p.m.