Naming the View

On a bench, gazing at the gob-smacking view from Cleeve Hill, Kate is unexpectedly joined by an irritating acquaintance from her past. An awkward conversation slowly reveals why their hopes and dreams never matched their expectations. Eventually, they find the courage to break the shackles of controlling partners and relish the joy of freedom. It is never too late to explore new horizons.

Naming the View takes its inspiration from Shakespeare’s much-loved comedy, The Taming of the Shrew. His play concludes with a speech by the once feisty Katherine declaring unreserved obedience to her newly married husband. Her character has certainly changed, but is it because of their mutual love and understanding or the bullish controlling ways of her husband?

Richard Curnow’s reimagining of Katherine after thirty years of marriage is a touching, funny and powerful piece that nails the subtleties of coercive control and shines a light on the damaging effects of abusive relationships.

This newly filmed version is made available with support from the Arts Council of England.