Theatre Oikos return to Zoo Venues this year with their interpretation of Shaffer’s classic ‘Equus’. Written in 1973 and revived in 2007, when Daniel Radcliff famously played Alan Strang, it often causes controversy.

Oikos are staging a radical re-working of this classic – an Equus for the 21st century, not least because of their innovative use of the chorus of ‘horses’ who, apart from their occasional appearance in the obligatory wire masks, are normally relegated to observers.

In this interpretation, pared back to a tense and eventful hour, the horses are maskless and also become the people of Alan’s memory and imagination. Alan re-enacts the events that led up to the horrific blinding of six horses and as he confronts his neurosis the ‘horses’ become a dynamic presence in his psyche and on the stage. “Amazing – a great production!” Newbury Weekly News

Oikos made their Edinburgh debut in 2008 with Berkoff’s ‘Messiah’; “Impressive performances from young actors with a lot of potential” (British Theatre Guide). In 2009 they brought a piece of original devised theatre about immigration. ‘Home’ premiered at Zoo Venues; “Stunning physical performances” (Broadway Baby), “Builds to an emotional conclusion that brings a tear to the eye” (Scotsman).