Equus at Performance Works

Returning to the Vancouver stage for the first time in more than twenty years, Equus by Peter Shaffer is one of the most celebrated psychological dramas in modern theatre. A provocative fever dream on the cost of suppressing passion in a society where "normality" is dogma, Sir Peter Shaffer's masterpiece continues to captivate and challenge audiences decades after its premiere.

Written in postwar Britain, Equus captures a society only half a century removed from our own—inviting comparison between what has changed and what may remain. The lines of social acceptance have shifted considerably since Shaffer wrote the play. Our impulse to draw them has proved harder to shake.

The production will feature multi casting, plus immersive staging & multimedia audio-visual elements to heighten audience connection to the material while showcasing the talent of the entire creative team.

Southern England. 1973. Alan Strang, 17, has blinded six horses. Psychiatrist Martin Dysart is tasked with discovering why. But the deeper Dysart pursues an answer, the further this case draws him beyond the boy—and the reach of diagnosis itself. Equus thrusts its audience into the examination room, where psychological experience takes physical form. Memories materialize, encounters erupt, and past and present are scrutinized in equal measure.

CONTENT WARNING: this production contains nudity, violence, and intense material. Audience discretion is advised.

RESTRICTION: 18+ to attend.

FORMAT: A 2 act play featuring a 15 minute intermission.

RUNTIME: 2 hours.

DATES:

PREVIEW - Wednesday, November 18th, 2026. 8:00PM

OPENING NIGHT - Thursday, November 19th, 2026. 8:00PM

Friday, November 20th, 8:00PM

Saturday, November 21st, 2:00PM (Matinee)

Saturday, November 21st, 8:00PM

CLOSING - Sunday, November 22nd, 2:00PM (Matinee)

CAST Dr. Martin Dysart – Eric Breker Alan Strang – Blake Williams Dora Strang/Nurse – Anita Wittenberg Frank Strang/Harry Dalton – Ian Farthing Hesther Saloman/Nurse -- P. Lynn Johnson Jill Mason/Nurse – Yasmine Ross Nugget/Horseman – Connor Anthony

CREATIVE & PRODUCTION TEAM Director — Rick Tae Producer – Blake Williams Designer –Projection Designer -- Saadat Pajouh Composer/Sound Designer - Heath Whitelock Costume Designer – Amber Smith Lighting/Set Designer -- Sam Cheng Technical Director – Phillip Miguel