A new adaptation of Shakespeare's play, set in the modern day and looking at themes of anti-semitism and feminism
Shakespeare’s play The Merchant of Venice has been the subject of debate for many years: is it anti-semitic, or does it merely reflect the mood of the day? Award-winning playwright Julia Pascal has adapted the play and updated it for our own time. She has introduced a new character, Sarah, who is a survivor of the Warsaw Ghetto, and who stumbles on a rehearsal of Shakespeare’s play while on a visit to Venice. The encounter gives Julia Pascal an opportunity to reflect on the extent to which the original text contains themes of anti-Jewish prejudice and misogyny – and to explore the play’s enduring influence today.
Julia Pascal’s adaptation of The Merchant of Venice is at the Arcola Theatre in London from the 11 September -13 October 2007.
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