Directed by Sheldon Epps, the production runs through Oct. 12 and opens the playhouse's season. Also starring is Merle Dandridge (Spamalot, Tarzan), who plays Lily/Kate.

According to press notes, "Kiss Me, Kate represents the iconic composer-lyricist Cole Porter at his very best and includes some of musical theatre’s most famous songs: 'So in Love,' 'Another Op’nin’ Another Show,' 'Too Darn Hot,' and 'Brush Up Your Shakespeare.' It is without a doubt one of the great classics of the American musical theatre, celebrating Shakespeare (it describes a production of The Taming of the Shrew) and the joys, madness and the rewards of working in the theatre - both onstage and off. The book is by Bella and Samuel Spewack."

Other cast members include Joanna A. Jones as Lois/Bianca, Terrance Spencer as Bill/Lucentio, Jenelle Lynn Randall as Hattie, Rogelio Douglas, Jr. as Paul, David Kirk Grant as Thug, Danny Stiles as Thug 2, Pat Towne as General Howell and Jay Donnell as Baptista. The ensemble features Eric B. Anthony, Shamicka Benn-Moser, Theresa Murray, Saudia Rashed, Carlton Wilborn and Armando Yearwood.

Jeffrey Polk serves as choreographer with Rahn Coleman as musical director, John Iacovelli as scenic designer, David K. Mickelsen as costume designer, Steven Young as lighting designer and Jon Gotlieb and Jonathan Burke as sound designers.

The Pasadena Playhouse is located at 39 South El Molino Avenue in Pasadena. Tickets start at $47. Visit PasadenaPlayhouse.org for more information.