Quentin Tarantino would be proud of this young guy Shakespeare. From the "previews" that roll before the show opens, to every bloody beat of the play, Seattle Shakespeare Company cheerfully plays out the raw human fascination with sex and violence that spans from Greek tragedies to modern grindhouse movies. There are few missed chances to enjoy that visceral feeling in SSC's 2016 production of Titus. Though it may push to the edge of disquiet with its morbid cheerfulness, I'm of the opinion that only makes it better. Ultimately, this is a version that is all about bloody entertainment a la Kill Bill.
It shouldn't be surprising how well the references to Tarantino, dehumanizing blacksploitation, and startling gory humor fit into Titus. It was all already there. It's a prominent source of revenge drama DNA. A sign of good production choices is that that they serve to remind the audience just how good the "historical"play is. This is a genre Shakespeare didn't invent, but he certainly took to new heights.
It's wonderfully clear that the team on this production is way ahead of me on all these fronts, and the play itself makes for a juicy, messy, elbows-deep feast in exploring these topics and being damn entertaining at the same time.
Worth mentioning, also, are the very kind words and round of applause that Managing Director John Bradshaw shared for volunteers. Seattle Shakespeare Company gives appreciation to its volunteers in genuine ways, it's definitely noticed, and I would recommend volunteering there (and seeing the shows for free!) at the drop of a hat.