A preview audience took in the Shakespeare classic, “Taming of the Shrew” Preston Park-style on Thursday evening.

The park in Butler Township will be the site of the classic Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through July 31.

Elizabeth and Kenny Smith knocked it out of the Park as the Katharina and Petruchio. Their chemistry was spot on and delightful.

Elizabeth gave us the feisty Kate that The Bard intended while Kenny delivered the patient and slightly crazy husband who wooed the shrew in spite of herself. He was witty and charming.

The couple brought less shove and more love to the production and showed how much more powerful love is at overcoming and wooing than brashness or harshness, a delightful spin on what can often be a snarky and overbearing production.

The beautiful Bianca was played by Brianna Herr who nailed the flirtatious and flighty nymph who attracted suitors of all ages and stages.

The scenes shared with her older sister Kate were enjoyable. With each twist of a phrase and facial expression, she conveyed just how tightly wrapped she had her daddy, convincingly played by Bob Meals.

Jake Kyriazis and Matt Leslie portrayed Lucentio and Tranio, a conniving pair that set about to scheme their way into Bianca’s heart.

The pair was believable even when they traded places. Their excitement and enthusiasm for the roles was refreshing.

Bianca’s other suitors were played by Steve Fogle as the stately Gremio and Justin Macurdy as the young Hortensio. Their banter was enjoyable and the scene when Kate had her way with Hortensio, hilarious.

Greg Crawford offered up quite the amusing Grumio, Petruchio’s manservant. His performance had me wondering how much of the hilarity was scripted.

Director Phil Ball, also stepped into a couple roles, which of course he owned.

As director he assembled a remarkable cast yielding a most entertaining result which delighted the audience comprised of children and teens to middle aged folks and seniors.

Supportive performances were handily offered up by Molly Miller, Liz Flander, Fred Sarkin and Madison Burtner.

There is less walking this year and there were fewer bugs, but a bottle of water and a lawn chair are a good idea to enhance the theater in the park experience.

Preston Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Preston Park consists of 98 acres and is located at 415 South Eberhart Road.

Amenities include walking trails, fishing ponds, wildlife, and numerous unique plants. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.