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The Merchant of Venice 1936 Tickets

The “fascinating and timely” adaptation starring Tracy-Ann Oberman returns!

This production is recommended for ages 12+.

Performance dates

28 December 2024 - 25 January 2025

Run time: 2hrs (inc. interval)

Includes interval

4.6

151 reviews

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Directed by Brigid Larmour

Starring Tracy-Ann Oberman

★★★★★

‘the perfect example of how to do shakespeare’

Metro

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.

Previous West End cast. Photography by Marc Brenner.
Previous West End cast. Photography by Marc Brenner.

Content

This is an adaptation of the original text, which contains themes of racism, including anti-Semitism.

Recent Reviews

4.6
151 reviews
Robert Ward

The play transferred to 1936 effortlessly. It was a powerful proformance by all . The message of the play was as poiyiant today as when Shakespeare wrote it . Highly recommended to all .

Cathy

Setting the play during London's East End Moseley induced riots had some horrific moments and was (healthily) disturbing However, I felt that this adaptation just didn't quite work. To use this play as a piece of anti racist propoganda is complicated due to Shylock's very unlovable and flawed character and responses. This bothered me throughout the play. And the ending, which suddenly felt very "PC" with the blackshirts shedding their top layer to become those who stood side by side with the Jewish population shouting "They shall not pass" jarred with me. However, I would still recommend the play! Fantastic acting. Beautiful venue (which I had never been to before). Shakespeare never disappoints. Always a great night out.

Carolyne Davis

Excellent show blending the modern with Shakespearean language and showing the rampant antisemitism of old, which is once again a problem today. It was a powerful message about revenge and hatred of the other. Acted out beautifully .

Fiona Shears

Very interesting to have this play set against the backdrop of 1936.

Liz webb

A must see , cast were superb with the story telling. Welcoming theatre ,comfortable seats ,adequate legroom.

Janet Layton

Thought provoking and timely interpretation. Excellent performances by main actors. Obermann was outstanding.

Simon James

A number of the actors failed to enunciate their words clearly so it failed at the most simple technical level. The political statements were repetitive to the point of being tedious.

Margaret BARR

Sadly the younger members too ebullient and not good at projection.

Miss Christine D'Souza

Excellent cast all parts balanced...mixture of history and theatre just the right balance

Julie Lynch

Excellent performance, very moving

lajbr

Its amazing..

Basil

Highly entertaining, brilliant acting

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