Jake Robertson in rehearsals for The Two Gentleman of Verona – photo by Geraint Lewis

Jake Robertson (2021, DPhil Modern Languages) plays the major role of The Duke in The Two Gentlemen of Verona, which opens at the Oxford Playhouse on 15 May.

This modern retelling follows Valentine, as he moves from his home in small town Verona, to the exciting city of Milan and falls in love with wealthy heiress Silvia. Meanwhile Valentine’s best friend Proteus, leaves behind his girlfriend Julia, and follows him to Milan. Things become complicated when Proteus becomes obsessed with Silvia.

A complex tale of passion and disguise unfolds as young adults navigate desire, consent, and the limits of friendship.

Directed by Sir Gregory Doran and brought to life by Oxford University students, The Two Gentlemen of Verona is one of Shakespeare’s earliest plays and also one of the most rarely performed. It will be the first time that Sir Gregory has directed the play.

Sir Gregory Doran – photo by Geraint Lewis

Sir Gregory Doran is the current Cameron Mackintosh Visiting Professor of Contemporary Theatre at the University of Oxford. An outstanding Shakespearian with an illustrious career, he was Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company from 2012 to 2022 and is the first Cameron Mackintosh Visiting Professor to direct a student production as part of his tenure.

Tickets are available via the Oxford Playhouse website.

Published: 15 May 2024

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