Most Shakespearean scholars – of which I am not – classify The Merchant of Venice as a comedy. This play was written following a period when William Shakespeare became known for his popular portrayals of English kings.
Historians cite his poetry in this work, and his sympathetic understanding of the Jewish money-lender, Shylock, and the romantic subplot that revolves around his daughter, in love with a Christian youth. It’s certainly not surprising that generations of audiences have been able to relate to prevailing mores.
The current production of Merchant at Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, Massachusetts is under the direction of that esteemed organization’s Founder and Artistic Director, Tina Packer. Ms. Packer, a well-recognized Shakespearean scholar and author, states in her “Program Note”: "The Merchant of Venice is a difficult play. It is so full of racism and sexism that it makes it difficult to produce; it is written as a comedy but its themes all point to tragedy. However, this mix of bigotry and humor also makes it a play for our time. The racism and sexism live on several levels…and makes us squirm because we see ourselves reflected on stage."
This production of The Merchant of Venice has merit on many levels. It has a large cast of 14 in speaking roles, which seems even larger because of the actors in supporting roles changing into different costumes when joining in the merriment…of which there is a joyous overflow.
But, of course, the quality of the current production rests with Tina Packer and her cast, together with an imaginative theater team. She has brought out – or, rather, has enabled her characters to bring out – every emotion… every subtle relationship…every overt bigotry…yes, and every love story. Again, to quote Ms. Packer: “I wanted to see if I could meet all these issue head on...the cast joined me in this endeavor.”
The most critical role in the play is that of Shylock, a Jewish money-lender who has agreed to make a loan to a friend of the borrower. The friend, however, has publicly denounced all Venetian Jews for their money-lending practices. Shylock agrees to make the loan – at no interest – with the proviso that, should the loan go unpaid, Shylock would be entitled to one pound of the borrower’s flesh. As Shylock, Shake & Co veteran Jonathan Epstein performs with his usual skill that audiences have witnessed for decades in dozens of Shakespearean productions.
The entire cast displays its enthusiasm to see that this show meets the intent of the author…the vision of the director…and the pleasure of the audience. They are complemented by music that is fittingly irreverent and boisterous, and costumes that are nothing short of phenomenal.
The story is to ponder…the production is to enjoy.
The Merchant of Venice plays now through August 21st at Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, Massachusetts.
Herbert Wolff studied under the guidance of Lee Strasberg and subsequently had roles with summer theater companies in upstate New York and on live television. He is former vice president of International Television Association and former Chairman of Massachusetts Advisory Council on Scientific and Technical Education. Herb continues to write, direct and appear in stage plays. For over 25 years he has been an on-air reviewer of theater and opera productions for WAMC Northeast Public Radio.
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