Podcast Summary: Smosh Mouth Episode #62 - "The Performance Of A Lifetime"

Introduction

In Episode #62 of Smosh Mouth, released on September 16, 2024, hosts Shayne Topp (Shane) and Amanda Lehan-Canto (Amanda) are joined by two special guests, Angela and Johanna, alongside Chancing Cove. The episode centers around a unique and lively performance: a cold read of an abridged version of William Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew." The hosts blend their characteristic humor with literary exploration, creating an engaging experience for both Shakespeare enthusiasts and casual listeners.

Guest Introduction and Preparation

At the outset, Shane and Amanda introduce their guests, Angela and Johanna, highlighting their enthusiasm for Shakespeare. Johanna showcases her extensive collection of Shakespearean works, including her "complete works" and journals from her studies at Oxford and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Johanna shares her deep passion for Shakespeare, emphasizing her long-standing commitment since high school. Amanda humorously acknowledges Johanna's dedication, mentioning, "[Amanda] don't want to hear you bully anyone for being a nerd again" (00:27).

Discussion on Shakespeare's Complexity

The conversation delves into the challenges of reading Shakespeare, with Shane admitting his struggles: "Without the... explanations on the side pages, I'd be completely lost" (05:13). Johanna offers insights into various methods of studying Shakespeare, referencing her experiences at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and in academic settings. The group discusses the rhythmic beauty of Shakespeare's iambic pentameter and how it brings the text to life, with Johanna stating, "The text sings and it's melodic and it's beautiful" (03:53).

Super Bowl Predictions and Halftime Show Banter

Transitioning from literary discussions, the hosts engage in a spirited segment on NFL Super Bowl predictions. Shane asks for guesses on the Super Bowl winner, prompting Amanda to humorously declare, "I'm gonna go with the Patriots because I'm a die-hard Patriot fan" (11:29), despite acknowledging their recent performance. The conversation shifts to potential halftime show performers, with playful debates about artists like Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, and Katy Perry. Amanda quips, "[Amanda] feel like he (Bruno Mars) does commercials for the NFL singing" (13:20), highlighting the intersection of pop culture and sports.

Cold Read Performance of "The Taming of the Shrew"

The heart of the episode features the collaborative cold read performance. The group assigns multiple roles among themselves and Chancing Cove, preparing for their Shakespearean rendition. Amanda outlines her roles, stating she will portray various male characters, including Baptista and Vincenzo (14:23). Angela takes on roles such as Lucentio and Hortensio, while Johanna plays Grimio, Tranio, Grumio, and a tailor.

As the performance unfolds, the group navigates through the complexities of Shakespeare's dialogue with humor and improvisation. Notable moments include:

• Character Introductions and Disguises: Johanna humorously modifies Grimio's voice to differentiate from Tranio, adding a comedic twist. Angela asks, "Are we doing British or Italian accents?" (17:28), to which Shane responds, "I'm doing different accents" (17:32).

• Plot Navigation: The hosts expertly move through key scenes, highlighting the battle of wits between Petruchio and Katarina. Amanda humorously remarks on her character's aggressive tactics: "I will be angered. What hast thou to do?" (30:22).

• Humorous Interjections: The performance is peppered with humorous exchanges, such as Johanna's line, "What widows have lost their expanse" (37:32), and Shane's playful frustrations during Shakespearean dialogue: "It is not moonlight now" (52:19).

• Climactic Scenes and Revelations: The culmination of the performance sees the unraveling of disguises and the chaotic merging of characters, with Amanda exclaiming, "Fuck you guys. They're so old." (50:03) and Johanna’s exasperated plea, "Please, let's do a tragedy" (64:56).

Post-Performance Reflections

After the performance, the hosts and guests reflect on the experience. Amanda praises the improvisational skills of her co-hosts, stating, "They butt well together head and..." (60:58). Johanna expresses enthusiasm for future performances, suggesting a tragedy, while Amanda invites listeners to suggest another play, expressing her enjoyment with, "That was awesome" (60:21).

Conclusion

Episode #62 of Smosh Mouth successfully blends literary exploration with comedic performance. Through their rendition of "The Taming of the Shrew," Shayne, Amanda, Angela, Johanna, and Chancing Cove showcase their ability to make classic literature accessible and entertaining. The inclusion of Super Bowl predictions and lighthearted banter further enhances the episode's engaging atmosphere. As Amanda aptly concludes, "We have to do another play. Maybe it is a tragedy. Please" (65:01), signaling the group's commitment to continuing their creative experiments.

Notable Quotes

• Amanda: "I really never want to hear you bully anyone for being a nerd again." (00:27)
• Shayne: "Without the, like, explanations on the side pages, I'd be completely lost." (05:13)
• Johanna: "The text sings and it's melodic and it's beautiful." (03:53)
• Amanda: "I'm gonna go with the Patriots because I'm a die-hard Patriot fan." (11:29)
• Shayne: "Oh, my God. He keeps hold of her hand." (31:12)
• Johanna: "Please, let's do a tragedy." (64:56)
• Amanda: "That was awesome." (60:21)

Timestamp Key

• 00:27 - Amanda on not bullying nerds.
• 05:13 - Shayne discussing struggles with Shakespeare.
• 03:53 - Johanna on the melodic nature of Shakespeare's text.
• 11:29 - Amanda's Super Bowl prediction.
• 31:12 - Interactions during the performance.
• 64:56 - Johanna suggesting a tragedy for next time.
• 60:21 - Amanda applauding the performance.

Note: Timestamps are indicative and correspond to the sections of the transcript provided.