RSC Live: The Merchant of Venice

This production of William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice" is set in a modern Venice, focusing on the complex character of Shylock and the themes of prejudice, mercy, and justice. The play follows the story of a merchant who defaults on a loan, leading to a cruel bargain with a Jewish moneylender. It explores the societal pressures and personal vendettas that drive the characters' actions in a world grappling with religious and economic divides.

The 2015 Royal Shakespeare Company production of 'The Merchant of Venice', directed by Rupert Goold and starring Simon Russell Beale as Shylock, was widely acclaimed for its compelling performances and incisive direction. Critics lauded Beale's nuanced portrayal of the often-maligned moneylender, highlighting the production's ability to bring out the play's enduring relevance and challenging themes. The modern setting was generally seen as effective in underscoring the play's exploration of prejudice and social injustice.

• Simon Russell Beale delivers a powerful and multi-layered performance as Shylock.

• Rupert Goold's modern staging effectively highlights the play's themes of prejudice and justice.

• The production successfully balances the play's tragic and comedic elements.

Google audience: Audience reception for this specific live cinema broadcast is not broadly documented with specific summaries of like/dislike sentiment.

None notable for this specific broadcast version.

The production's modern setting was a deliberate choice by director Rupert Goold to draw parallels between the Venetian society depicted in the play and contemporary issues of intolerance and xenophobia.