Opening 2015 with William Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” the Diablo Valley College drama department will aim for laughs and a more complicated view of modern-day relationships.

“The Taming of the Shrew” was first performed in 1593 and one of his most popular comedies. It is often noted for its controversial depiction of the politics of marriage and courtship.

The play follows the courtships of Bianca and Kate and the relentless suitors who chase them. Among those seeking Kate’s hand is Petruchio, a funny and often abusive fortune-seeker.

Marcela Castro, who plays Baptista Minola, is happy with the crew’s progress.

“I think rehearsals are doing pretty well,” she says. “I feel like now people are definitely getting really into it and getting more physical on stage.”

The crew is especially pleased with their director, DVC professor Kathleen Normington. Noah Sturtridge, who plays Tranio, says, “She’s really kind and she gives really good direction. We’re having a lot of fun going through these things together.”

Though cast members don’t want to spoil it for audiences, one specific scene has them especially excited.

“There’s one really long scene that sounds like it’s going to be really serious in the beginning because I’m angry,” Castro says. “Things are being thrown around and people are angry, and you see some stuff, a lot of stuff, from certain people, and I think it’ll definitely make people laugh.”

“The Taming of the Shrew” will open Jan. 30 and run through Feb. 15. Performances will be held at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, with 10:30 a.m. matinees on Feb. 6 and Feb. 11, as well as 2:00 p.m. matinees on Feb. 8 and Feb. 15.

For more information visit the DVC drama website.