Venus & Adonis
17 June to 20 June
About Venus & Adonis
By William Shakespeare
Narrated live by Simon Russell Beale
Directed by Sir Greg Doran
Puppets designed and created by Lyndie Wright
Former Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company and renowned Shakespearean, Greg Doran, revives his celebrated production of Venus & Adonis, Shakespeare’s great narrative poem.
Narrated by Simon Russell Beale and animated by a team of world-class puppeteers with live musical accompaniment, this unique production blends comedy, tragedy and Shakespeare’s incredible poetry to bring the famous story of Venus and her obsession with the handsome Adonis thrillingly to life in a rich, immersive theatrical experience.
Drawing inspiration from the bewitching artistry of Japanese Bunraku puppets and the Jacobean Court Masque, this spellbinding production tells the story using marionettes, rod, shadow and table-top puppets.
As part of a limited UK and European tour, this is an exclusive and rare opportunity to witness, close at hand, this powerful erotically-charged story of unrequited love.
Reviews
★★★★★
WhatsOnStage
“Shakespeare’s racy verse turned into a terrific puppet show.” ★★★★
Daily Telegraph
“Witty, erotic and ingenious.” ★★★★
The Guardian
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
£15.00 to £42.00
Dates & times:
Wednesday 17 to Saturday 20 June 2026
Wednesday to Saturday at 7.30pm
Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm
Running time:
This show does not include an interval.
Location:
Burton Taylor Studio
Age guidance:
14+
Content guidance:
This show contains mature themes and imagery.
Good to know:
Post-Show Talk – Thursday 18 June
Greg Doran shares insights into the evolution of this production of Venus & Adonis from his book, My Shakespeare: A Director’s Journey through the First Folio and discusses his latest publication, Walking Shadow – Love, Loss and Shakespeare. Both books are published by Bloomsbury, and he will be available to sign copies following the event.
Post-Show Talk- Friday 19 June
Post-show Talk with Greg Doran and members of the company.
About Oxford Playhouse
Oxford Playhouse and its Burton Taylor Studio present and produce several live performances and feature a rich array of British and international dramas, family entertainment, contemporary dance and music, student and amateur shows, comedy, lectures and poetry.
The Playhouse not only produces and tours its own theatrical productions, but it also fosters creativity through its Artists in Residence program and the Playhouse Plays Out series, which brings unique events to various locations across the county.
The theatre’s Participation Team engages over 15,000 individuals annually, offering an extensive range of activities, including post-show discussions, workshops, work experience opportunities, holiday programs, a youth theatre, and a company for young performers.
Oxford Playhouse stands dedicated to its mission of being a Playhouse for all, striving to ignite inspiration and bring about transformative experiences through its commitment to creativity on its stages, within its community and online.
Discover more about Oxford Playhouse, including travel, access and venue information.
