London’s Marylebone Theatre is set to host a special one-night-only performance of William Shakespeare’s “Venus and Adonis” on November 17. This unique event will feature the talents of three-time Tony Award winner Mark Rylance and Tony Award winner Derek Jacobi. The performance aims to raise funds for the Marylebone Theatre, a relatively new venue that has quickly gained a reputation for staging original and compelling plays, often in verse.
Mark Rylance, known for his roles in “Boeing-Boeing,” “Jerusalem,” and “Twelfth Night,” expressed his excitement about the upcoming performance. “In the early 1990s, I was a month away from performing ‘Venus and Adonis’ when the production had to be canceled. Thirty years later, I am excited to be revisiting my plans to play Shakespeare’s first known published work as part of a gala fundraiser for the Marylebone Theatre,” Rylance said. He also highlighted the theatre’s unique mission to explore and refresh the great classical tradition, adding, “I am delighted that my dear friend Derek Jacobi will be joining on stage to support a venue with a unique calling.”
Derek Jacobi, celebrated for his role in “Much Ado About Nothing,” will join Rylance in this special performance. The collaboration between these two esteemed actors is expected to bring a new level of depth and nuance to Shakespeare’s exquisite long poem.
Marylebone Theatre’s Artistic Director, Alexander J. Gifford, shared his enthusiasm for the event and the theatre’s upcoming season. “As the Marylebone Theatre approaches its second birthday, I am proud to be announcing a season which combines the urgently political with the eternally poetic. ‘Venus and Adonis’ is perhaps the most exquisite long poem in the English language. Performed by two of Shakespeare’s greatest modern interpreters, Sir Mark Rylance and Sir Derek Jacobi, it will be the centerpiece of a gala fundraiser, whose goal is to secure the Marylebone’s future as a major, new producing house,” Gifford said.
The fundraiser is part of an ambitious autumn-winter season that includes several other notable productions. Among them are “The Last Word,” “What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank,” “A Sherlock Carol,” “I Digress,” and the exhibition “Long Shadows, Bright World.” Each of these works aims to consolidate the Marylebone Theatre’s reputation as an important new venue offering relevant, potent, and artistically excellent work.
The Marylebone Theatre, which has quickly become a cultural hub in London, is dedicated to presenting plays that resonate with contemporary audiences while honoring classical traditions. The theatre’s commitment to artistic excellence and its innovative programming have made it a standout venue in the city’s vibrant arts scene.
For those interested in attending the benefit performance of “Venus and Adonis,” tickets are available on the Marylebone Theatre’s website. This event promises to be a memorable evening, showcasing the extraordinary talents of Mark Rylance and Derek Jacobi while supporting a vital cultural institution.
The collaboration between Rylance and Jacobi is particularly noteworthy given their illustrious careers and deep connections to Shakespearean theatre. Rylance, a former artistic director of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, has long been celebrated for his interpretations of the Bard’s works. Jacobi, a founding member of the Royal National Theatre, has also garnered acclaim for his Shakespearean performances, making this pairing a dream come true for theatre enthusiasts.
The performance of “Venus and Adonis” will not only highlight the beauty and complexity of Shakespeare’s poetry but also serve as a testament to the enduring power of live theatre. In an era where digital entertainment often dominates, events like this remind us of the unique and irreplaceable experience of witnessing live performances.
As the Marylebone Theatre continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of presenting thought-provoking and artistically rich productions. The upcoming season, with its blend of new works and classical pieces, reflects this dedication and promises to offer something for everyone.
In addition to the benefit performance, the Marylebone Theatre’s autumn-winter season will feature a diverse array of productions. “The Last Word” explores themes of communication and connection, while “What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank” delves into issues of identity and memory. “A Sherlock Carol” offers a fresh take on classic characters, and “I Digress” presents a unique narrative structure. The exhibition “Long Shadows, Bright World” will provide a visual complement to the theatre’s literary offerings.
The Marylebone Theatre’s commitment to artistic excellence and its innovative programming have made it a standout venue in London’s cultural landscape. As it approaches its second anniversary, the theatre continues to build on its successes and expand its reach, drawing in new audiences and fostering a vibrant community of artists and theatre-goers.
For those who appreciate the magic of live theatre and the timeless beauty of Shakespeare’s works, the benefit performance of “Venus and Adonis” is an event not to be missed. With Mark Rylance and Derek Jacobi at the helm, this one-night-only performance promises to be a highlight of the season and a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of William Shakespeare.
Source: London News
