Ronin Theatre Co. presents comedic battle of the sexes

PHOENIX, AZ -- Ronin Theatre Company presents  David Ives' Tony Award-nominated play VENUS IN FUR starting August 16 at Stage Left Productions in Surprise.

“For me, this show is about power," said Ronin director and co-founder Cody Goulder. "Rarely is it presented in a package that is so funny, sexy, and smart all at the same time.” 

The male lead, Thomas, is a director/playwright who has suffered through a long day of dismal auditions when a crass and pushy actress stumbles in. He agrees to let the actress, Vanda, read for the role with Thomas playing a masochist. The roleplay becomes intense and erotic as ideas of dominance are put into question in a hilarious way. 

BJ Garrett (Thomas) is making his Ronin stage debut. In addition to his primary role as artistic director at Space 55, Garrett is an accomplished producer and director. His most recent directing credits include the original plays ROGER AND GENE and ORANGE SKIES.

Melody Knudson (Vanda) returns to Ronin as the sensual foil to Garret’s Thomas.  Last season, she played Viola in TWELFTH NIGHT and has been in a variety of local productions, including HAMLET, THE MAN WHO CAME TO DINNER and MIRACLE WORKER.

Goulder’s directing credits for Ronin include TWELFTH NIGHT, THE MONSTER OF TEMPE TOWN LAKE and PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD.

VENUS IN FUR runs August 16 through the 25 with four evening and matinee performances. Tickets are $25 for regular admission. Reservations are encouraged and available online at www.stageleftaz.com/specialevents.

The remainder of Ronin’s 2024 Season features HAUNTED CASTLE and CORIOLANUS, both staged at the Irish Cultural Center in downtown Phoenix. More at www.ronintheatre.com.