The Merchant of Venice

Thanks to Trafalgar Theatre Productions, Eilene Davidson Productions and Alan Howard, in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company, for the remarkable Watford Palace Theatre and HOME Manchester production of The Merchant of Venice 1936. This is Shakespeare at his best, brought roaring into the 20^th century against a backdrop of Fascism and the threat of war. This is powerful stuff, a play where ambition, power and political unrest explode onto the stage. If the setting feels familiar, it probably is – the production is described as ‘timely’ for a good reason.

The play stars Tracy-Ann Oberman (EastEnders, Doctor Who) as Shylock and Raymond Coulthard as the merchant Antonio in a “striking and impactful” (Guardian) new version set to make history on the theatre scene. The direction comes from Brigid Larmour, another perfect tick in the box. Make your way to London’s Criterion Theatre to experience the drama, on stage for a limited season from 15th February 2024. The story? As tensions in the capital’s East End rise Shylock, a strong single mother and businesswoman, will do anything to ensure a good future for her daughter. The charismatic merchant Antonio presents the perfect opportunity. 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? This production is quite something, so don’t miss it.