Ambition, power and political unrest explode onto the stage in The Merchant of Venice 1936, direct from selling out the RSC and London’s West End.
Starring Tracy-Ann Oberman (EastEnders, Doctor Who) as Shylock, Shakespeare’s classic is transported to 1930s Britain in this “striking and impactful” (Guardian) new production that “makes theatre history” (The Telegraph). It is adapted by Brigid Larmour and Tracy-Ann Oberman.
Tensions in London’s East End are rising and Shylock, a resilient single mother and hard-working businesswoman, is desperate to protect her daughter’s future. When the charismatic merchant Antonio comes to her for a loan, a high-stakes deal is struck. Will Shylock take her revenge, and who will pay the ultimate price?
If you prick us do we not bleed?
If you poison us do we not die?
And if you wrong us shall we not revenge?
Don’t miss this unforgettable, electrifying new production of The Merchant of Venice, a “fascinating and timely” (Daily Mail) reminder of a key moment in British history.
The perfect example of how to do Shakespeare
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Tracy-Ann Oberman is magnetic as Shylock
The Stage
cast

Gráinne Dromgoole
Jessica

Georgie Fellows
Portia

Gavin Fowler
Bassanio

Evie Hargreaves
Mary / Nerissa

Joseph Millson
Antonio / Arragon

Tracy-Ann Oberman
Shylock

Elly Roberts
Stefania / Blackshirt

Mikhail Sen
Lorenzo / Maharajah

Xavier Starr
Gratiano / Police Constable

Alex Zur
Yuval / Balthasar / Blackshirt / Duke
Company
Brigid Larmour
Director
Tracy-Ann Oberman
Associate Director
Liz Cooke
Costume & Set Design
Rory Beaton
Lighting Design
Sarah Weltman
Sound Design
Erran Baron Cohen
Composer

STORYTELLING PLATFORM
This Extended Storytelling Platform gives an insight into the historical context of the production, exploring The Battle of Cable Street and British fascism in the 30s; an introduction to Shakespeare and discoveries of The Merchant of Venice; and exclusive behind-the-scenes content into the process of theatre-making.