The Two Gentlemen of Verona
One of Shakespeare’s earlier pieces, The Two Gentleman of Verona tells the story of best friends Valentine and Proteus, but their lifelong friendship is brought into question when they both fall in love with the same girl, Sylvia.
Valentine travels to Milan in search of the wonders of the world, leaving Proteus in Verona besotted with his love Julia. Proteus’ mother decides to send him to Milan also, against his wishes and accompanied by his manservant Launce and his dog Crab.
Proteus arrives in Milan and finds that Valentine is a changed man, having fallen in love with the duke’s daughter Sylvia, who is being pursued by the wealthy Thurio. Proteus instantly becomes infatuated with Sylvia and hatches a plan to betray Valentine (who has made plans to elope with Sylvia) and get him banished from the city, paving the way to Sylvia clear for himself.
Meanwhile, Julia has followed her love, Proteus, to Milan, disguised as ‘Sebastian,’ and here uncovers Proteus’ plan and betrayal. Sylvia, aided by her friend Eglamour, escapes her father and goes in search of Valentine, who has now become leader of a band of outlaws, hiding out in the forest. Captured by these outlaws, Sylvia is reunited with Valentine and as Proteus attempts her rescue, his plan is unravelled and the depth of his betrayal of his friendship with Valentine and his promise to Sylvia is discovered.
Directed by Joanna Bowman, the production is staged well over various levels created by Francis O’Connor’s set design, and this gives the performance an attractive aesthetic. The music in the piece, composed by John Patrick Elliott creates an attractive appeal to a younger audience with its upbeat tempos and Derek Anderson’s lighting design has a modern touch to it, which again focuses the younger audience.
The cast is full of talented musician/actors and Jonny Khan, as Valentine and Lance West, as Proteus have a good on-stage rapport. Sian Stephens is a strong Sylvia and Aisha Goodman, a confident Julia.
Delightful comic moments are supplied in multitude by Tom Babbage as Speed/Thurio and Stu McLoughlin as Laune/Eglamour, and of course we must mention the charming Lossi as Crab, Laune’s dog.
The production is clearly aimed towards a younger audience, with its early start time, performance length and timing for the summer holidays, but it provides a great introduction to Shakespeare for any age and an enjoyable visit to the theatre for all.
The piece is a great insight into teenage life. Its friendships, its relationships, and its firsts. First loves, first discoveries, first betrayals and first apologies. It’s a relatable piece, we have all been there, but how we learn from our mistakes shapes us for our future and makes us who we are.
This show was reviewed on the 12th August 2025. The Two Gentleman of Verona is at the RSC, Stratford-Upon-Avon until 31st August. Tickets available here: The Two Gentlemen of Verona
Review written by Rachel Louise Martin
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