Final rehearsals are now underway for the Oxford Playhouse and University of Oxford students co-production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona, which plays at The Playhouse from Wednesday 15 to Saturday 18 May 2024.

A co-production in association with theCameron Mackintosh Visiting Professor & Drama Funds and St Catherine’s College, Oxford, the student company are working alongside the former Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, Sir Gregory Doran who is the current University of Oxford Cameron Mackintosh Visiting Professor of Contemporary Theatre.

One of Shakespeare’s most rarely performed plays, The Two Gentlemen of Verona explores themes of friendship, love and betrayal and finally reconciliation.

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This modern retelling follows Valentine as he moves from his small hometown to the exciting city of Milan and falls in love with the wealthy Silvia. Meanwhile his best friend Proteus, leaves behind his girlfriend Julia, and follows him to Milan, but things become complicated when Proteus also becomes obsessed with Silvia. A complex tale of passion and disguise unfolds as young adults navigate desire, consent, and the limits of friendship.

The production aims to embrace the relevance of the play for young people today. Enhancing the energy and atmosphere of one of Shakespeare’s earlier works, The Two Gentlemen of Verona includes performers in drag and even features a live dog who takes on the role of the mischievous Crab.

Of the production, Greg Doran said:

“Two Gents explores the challenges of young people setting out in the world - leaving home, trying to make their way, falling in love, making mistakes. As students have that lived experience, it is vital that how the production looks and sounds and feels reflects that experience.”

James Critchley, Assistant Director described the experience as, “Intense, mind-expanding, and joyful: working on Two Gents with such a hard-working cast, under the guidance of such an esteemed and generous mentor, has been the high-point of my time in Oxford.”

Jo Rich, who plays Launce, said, “Greg's diligent approach to the language of Shakespeare has provided an invaluable window into the scenes and characters we hope to embody. Simultaneously, his gentle approach to direction has given us room to really explore the characters' relations to us as young people with many shared experiences to the parts. It has been particularly special coming to grips with and working with a real dog for my character's pet - Rocky the cockapoo.”

The play is the only in the First Folio which Greg is yet to direct and is an exciting part of his time as the 29th Cameron Mackintosh Visting Professor. Each year, Oxford Playhouse works with students from the University of Oxford on a co-production model to put on a play on the Main Stage. Supported by the Cameron Mackintosh Drama Fund, this allows students to gain insight into all aspects of professional theatre, working with industry professionals. Students have been involved in every part of the production, from performance to design and technical roles.