Actor enthusiastically declares joy over starring part in dual-language adaptation of 'The Taming of the Shrew'
In the heart of North Texas, a rising star is making waves in the world of Shakespearean theatre. Omar Padilla, a native of León, Guanajuato, who moved to Dallas in 2009, is set to play Petruchio in a bilingual adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew.
This marks Padilla's first lead in a Shakespeare production, directed by Roxanne Schroeder-Arce. The comedy has been reimagined, setting it in 1880s San Antonio, a departure from its original late 16th-century Padua, Italy, setting.
Padilla's foray into the world of Shakespeare was unexpected. Having never done Shakespeare before moving to Dallas, he fell in love with it and found it resonating deeply with him. This newfound passion led him to audition for various productions, including a performance in Shakespeare in the Bar's production of King Lear, where he portrayed the Fool.
In January, Padilla portrayed Lucio in Shakespeare Dallas' production of Measure for Measure, marking his first appearance for the company this year. His role in The Taming of the Shrew will be his second.
Despite his Spanish accent, Padilla could have chosen to audition for non-Hispanic roles. However, he was invited to portray the Fool in Shakespeare Dallas' King Lear, a testament to his talent and versatility.
Before embarking on his acting journey, Padilla majored in communications in college, a decision influenced by his brother's advice. After graduating, he pursued a film career. However, it was in Dallas that he began auditioning for Latino companies, a decision that has since propelled him to become one of the busiest actors in North Texas.
Padilla's mother, who is the last of his immediate family to immigrate to the U.S. from Mexico, will be able to follow the story of her son's success from across the border. A dream she had of seeing him on stage in a play reportedly influenced his decision to pursue acting.
With six stage shows last year alone, Omar Padilla continues to captivate audiences with his performances. His journey from a communications major to a leading actor in a bilingual adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew serves as an inspiration to many.
