Women Beware Women fuses the Renaissance masterwork of the Jacobean Thomas Middleton, with a contemporary updating by British playwright Howard Barker.

In this controversial play, Barker presents a fearless exploration of power, sexuality and the ambiguity of human motivation. Desire and vengeance run deep in the veins of these vampires, looking for their next feed.

This dark comedy gives a startling exposition of a world of politics, religion, glamour, intrigue and treachery. The plot begins with the secret marriage of a noblewoman (Tinarie Van Wyk Loots) to a working man (Scott Sparrow) and the enforced marriage of an heiress (Leila Anderson) to a simpleton (Luke Ellenbogen). The secret bride is seduced into being the Duke's mistress. Meanwhile, the heiress in despair at the prospect of being married to a dimwit, turns for solace to her favourite uncle (Guy De Lancy), who confesses that he himself is sexually attracted to her. Pulling the strings and lubricating these transactions is the wealthy socialite Livia (Terri Norton). By skilful manipulation and aggressive domination the characters hoard their commodities of power, wealth and sex, spinning compelling webs.

It is directed by Geoffrey Hyland and senior UCT Drama students complete the acting line-up. The costumes are designed by Illka Louw.