CAMDRAMETRICS

One of Shakespeare’s very first plays, The Two Gentlemen of Verona is the story of Proteus and Valentine, two friends sent out into the world to make their fortune. Proteus is in love with Julia, and when Valentine is sent to Milan, he falls in love with Sylvia. But when Proteus falls for her too, classic Shakespearian shenanigans ensue. Sylvia’s father is trying to marry her off to Duke Thurio, and when he finds Valentine planning to run off with her, Sylvia’s father banishes him to the woods. Meanwhile, Julia, unaware that Proteus has fallen in love with another, dresses as a boy and sets out to find him. Along for the ride are the servants Speed and Launce, and Launce’s pet dog Crab. Eventually everyone ends up out in the woods, where Valentine has been crowned king of a group of outlaws. After some comic misunderstandings, the love triangle is resolved.

This version, set outdoors in Clare's newly refurbished Sunken Garden, has been inspired by the Duke of Edinburgh Award expedition, failed camping trips, and farce. Picture everyone in waterproof trousers, comically large backpacks, and threatening each other with sporks. This rarely performed and deeply silly play has it all: Crossdressing! Italy! Outlaws! A dog called Crab!