Quote of the Day: Just as in 1948, when Kiss Me, Kate premiered on Broadway amidst a tumultuous post-WWII era, we find that we need art now more than ever. Kelli Foster Warder, Artistic Director at Artistry MN, and director of their current production Kiss Me, Kate, on stage through Feb. 15, 2026. 

When William Shakespeare meets Cole Porter, you get a delightful theatrical experience filled with witty lyrics, sexy rhythms, and amazing dancing. While I’ve never seen a production of Kiss Me, Kate before, I certainly knew most of its songs. Another Op’nin’, Another Show – Wunderbar – Tom, Dick or Harry – Brush Up You Shakespeare, to name a few. Plus, one of my favorites So In Love, which I’ve played on the piano many, many times! If you go, you might find yourself tapping your toe and mouthing along to the lyrics!

Erin Capello as Lilli/Katharine in Kiss Me, Kate at Artistry MN through 2/15/26. Photo: Alyssa Kristine

Twin Cities Theater Bloggers Favorite Musical Performance by an Individual Erin Capello is back at Artistry, after playing the lead in Waitress last year, as Lilli Vanessi/Katharine, the star of the play within a play, The Shrew, a musical take on Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. This is a backstage look at the relationships and antics that go on within a production company. When a divorced couple, Lilli and Fred, get cast opposite each other, mayhem ensues! John-Michael Zuerlein is absolutely delightful as Fred. Erin has a strong stage presence both as an actor and the characters she plays. Her vocals soar to the rafters. She is equally matched by John-Michael’s charming presence and luscious voice. They were a delight to see, and hear, on stage together! 

John-Michael Zuerlein as Fred/Petruchio and ensemble in Kiss Me, Kate, at Artistry MN thru 2/15/26. Photo: Alyssa Kristine

Nate Turcotte as Bill, the lovestruck young man, is adorable. Sweet casting with him opposite the stunning Aliya Grace as Lois Lane/Bianca. They’re duets and dances together were absolutely charming. Camryn Buelow is excellent as Hattie/ensemble. Marley Ritchie and Jon Michael Stiff as a pair of goofy gangsters was fun. I loved their Brush Up Your Shakespeare number! A highlight in the show. Chris Owusu’s Too Darn Hot that opened Act II was sizzling hot! All the actors/dancers were fabulous. Choreography by Joey Miller was wonderful, dynamic, and a treat to watch. 

Aliya Grace, Nate Turcotte, John-Michael Zuerlein, and Erin Capello in Kiss Me, Kate at Artistry MN, thru 2/15/26. Photo: Alyssa Kristine

Kelli Foster Warder directs this delightful classic musical. Music Direction by Elijah Leer, who gets a moment or two to interact with the cast. The orchestra was outstanding. They’re also on stage and add to the feeling of a musical within a musical, if you will. Lighting design by Jim Eischen really makes some of those numbers pop. Sound Design by Bailey Fenn. Costume Coordinator is Britt Hilton, and Wardrobe Technician is Emily Garst, a term I haven’t heard before, but I’ll assume that it takes some careful design to make Renaissance costumes work for the fast-paced dance and movement needed for this show. 

All of the elements come together beautifully to create a lovely escape into the theater world in Artistry’s production of Kiss Me, Kate. It felt good to get lost in that world for a few hours. Kelli Foster Warder is spot on in the quote above, we need theater to tell our stories, to delight and sooth us, to connect us. You can see Kiss Me, Kate at Artistry in Bloomington, MN through Feb. 15, 2026.

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: How are you coping during difficult times? Do you lean into the arts? What helps calm you and give you comfort or focus?