Why see Troilus and Cressida on stage?

"Troilus and Cressida" is often called one of Shakespeare’s most challenging plays, weaving together biting satire and gripping psychological drama. Renowned for its unpredictable tone, it offers a unique theatrical journey that oscillates between serious conflict and wicked humour. This production at Shakespeare’s Globe brings a seamless vision to the stage, making complex characters and their shifting motivations accessible to all audiences.

Setting and storyline

The narrative unfolds during the protracted Trojan War, a time steeped in heroism, political maneuvering and heartbreak. On the battlefield, Greek and Trojan warriors — including the formidable Achilles and Hector — wage war, their legendary clash echoing through the ages. Meanwhile, a more intimate struggle brews as Troilus, a noble Trojan prince, falls deeply for Cressida. Their secret love is threatened when Cressida is sent to the Greek camp, tearing the lovers apart and pitting their devotion against the relentless tides of war and betrayal.

Complex characters and themes

Shakespeare masterfully intertwines the destinies of Trojans and Greeks, exploring the moral ambiguities of loyalty and desire. The play invites audiences to ponder what it means to be a hero, a lover or a traitor. Through shifting alliances and intimate encounters, "Troilus and Cressida" questions the nature of honour and the heavy cost of glory in both love and war.

Adaptation for today

The Globe’s latest adaptation, under the direction of Owen Horsley, brings renewed vitality to these ancient tales. The production embraces both the grandeur of epic confrontations and the vulnerability of human emotion, making the narrative fresh for contemporary viewers while remaining true to Shakespeare’s vision.

• Performances unfold with dynamic staging, clever set designs and deeply felt performances.

• Key figures like King Priam, Achilles, Hector, Cressida, Ulysses and Agamemnon are vividly portrayed.

• The emotional tension between duty and passion is explored in bold and engaging ways.

• The unique atmosphere of the Globe Theater adds an immersive historical touch.

Ideal for

• Theatre enthusiasts seeking a thought-provoking classic

• Fans of Shakespeare’s dramatic storytelling

• Audiences interested in love stories set against epic backdrops

Book your Troilus and Cressida tickets now!