“If a Jew wrong a Christian, what is his humility? Revenge. If a Christian wrong a Jew, what should his sufferance be by Christian example? Why, revenge. The villany you teach me, I will execute, and it shall go hard but I will better the instruction.”

WORKSHOP 1 – 12th May

First readthrough and discussions.

Topics explored included:

The Couples – Jessica & Lorenzo, Portia & Bassainio, Nerrissa & Gratiano, Lancelot & The Moore…
Race or Religion
Court scene
Shylock
Antonio: Player of the pink Oboe?
Money and Value
Stucture
Who do we believe?
What style of Comedy? Dark?
Bassanio: User or thoughtless
Shylock the clown
Tubal: The other Jew
What if everyone is a clown?

WORKSHOP 2 – 26th May

Masterclass: Routes into Character – Tom Latter

Explore a Merchant of Venice character of your choice in more depth through a range of character-based exercises. A chance to share skills and learn new practices.

“Are there balance here to weigh the flesh?”

“I have them ready.”