Prepare to be swept away by the most popular play in Prague Shakespeare Company’s history! Venus in Fur, David Ives’ acclaimed masterpiece, returns to the legendary Estates Theater for one night only this Valentine’s Day, February 14th, 2025.
Venus in Fur is a thrilling exploration of the blurred lines between fantasy and reality, dominance and submission, and the timeless allure of seduction. Witness a battle of wills unfold as a mysterious actress, Vanda, auditions for the demanding director, Thomas, in his adaptation of the erotic novel “Venus in Furs.” Having captivated audiences across the United States and Europe, this seductive thriller now graces the stage where Mozart himself once premiered Don Giovanni. Experience the electric chemistry between internationally renowned actors Jessica Boone and Guy Roberts, the powerhouse duo who ignite the stage with their raw talent and undeniable magnetism.
Jessica Boone is a celebrated actress known for her captivating stage presence and nuanced portrayals on screen (TV audiences may remember her as Alwhin in Amazon’s The Wheel of Time among numerous other screen performances). We spoke with Jessica about the complexities of her character, the unique dynamic of working with her husband, director Guy Roberts, and the thrill of performing in this iconic venue.
CZECH LEADERS: Jessica, Vanda is a fascinating and complex character. How have you approached portraying her multifaceted personality?
Jessica Boone: I’ve love playing with how quickly she can turn on a dime. She thinks and feels and takes action quickly. One moment playful, seductive – even crass – then fiercely intelligent, sophisticated and commanding the next. Vanda is a chameleon, isn’t she? It’s a thrilling challenge as an actress to navigate those shifts and discover the vulnerability beneath her confident exterior. I’ve delved into her motivations, her desires, and the power she wields, both consciously and unconsciously.
CZ: This production is directed by your husband, Guy Roberts. What’s it like collaborating with him on such an intimate and intense piece?
Jessica Boone: Hah! How much time do you have? It’s a bit too meta, isn’t it? We can certainly challenge each other and push the boundaries of the characters and their relationship in perhaps a different and deeper/ more nuanced way than if we weren’t a couple. In brief; Fireworks. Sometimes the big, sprawling beautiful New Year’s Eve kind where you breathe in that fresh air and are ready to start anew; sometimes the hand-held Roman candle kind you let burn down too close to the skin and somebody inevitably gets burned a little.
CL: Venus in Fur explores themes of power, gender, and sexuality. What do you hope audiences take away from this production?
Jessica Boone: I hope they leave the theatre “revved up” (as Vanda would say) and ready to live boldly. So much of people’s time today is centered around these little screens we carry around in our pockets – engrossed watching other people fighting, fornicating, falling in love. 100+ years ago people were just – doing that. Living, not watching. The play sparks important conversations about those very themes. It dares us to examine our own perceptions and practise of power dynamics, the roles we play in relationships, society, and the nature of desire. It’s a play that stays with you long after you leave the theatre, prompting reflection and perhaps even a little self-discovery. And yes, theater is also watching in a sense – but we are all in the same room, sharing the same breath which hopefully is more invigorating and provoking.
CL: The Estates Theater is steeped in history. What does it mean to you to perform Venus in Fur in such an iconic venue?
Jessica Boone: To stand on the same stage where Mozart premiered Don Giovanni, to feel the weight of history and artistic legacy within those walls… it’s truly inspiring. It is one of the most magical places I have ever performed and I feel incredibly honored to have had the chance to play so many iconic roles on those boards over the years: Rosalind, Lady Macbeth, Hermione, Athena, The Fool. Vanda is, in many ways, an amalgamation of all of those women (and more!). I cannot wait to breathe life into her again while that space breathes life into me. The Estates Theater just has this unique energy, and I believe it adds another dimension to the performance, enhancing the intimacy and intensity of the play.
CL: For those considering seeing Venus in Fur, what can they expect from this production?
Jessica Boone: Fireworks. An invigorating ride. A night of captivating theatre that will challenge your perceptions and ignite your senses. It’s a seductive, intelligent, and ultimately, unforgettable experience.
This is the must-see theatrical event of 2025. Tickets are selling fast! Secure your seats now and prepare to be seduced by the Prague Shakespeare Company’s unforgettable production of Venus in Fur.
Prague Shakespeare Company presents
Venus in Fur
By David Ives
Directed by Guy Roberts
Performed in English
Czech titles and translation by Jitka Sloupová Estates Theatre
14 November, 2025
For more information visit www.pragueshakespeare.cz
Email PSC: info@pragueshakespeare.cz
Tickets available through the Národní divadlo website at: https://www.narodni-divadlo.cz/en/show/venus-in-fur-HEkc7uqCT9uSQw0mxNgrGA?t=2025-02-14-19-00