The 'Merchant of Venice' by Bohemian Theatre Ensemble

 
 

 
Classical pieces of drama, seemingly, contain a different challenge for a theatre company in today's modern era. BoHo has decided to take up that challenge and create a work of art with themes that resonate today as strongly as they did when written. Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice allowed BoHo to stretch its artistic wings, much like it has done with Songs for a New World, M. Butterfly, and Jekyll & Hyde this year, by focusing on the storytelling and natural drama of the piece and by adding in elements (projections, sound design by cast, and more) that enhance this age-old story.

The Merchant of Venice, set against a backdrop of high stakes finance and high stakes romance, tells the tale of long time enemies, two opposing cultures, two beautiful women and one pound of flesh woven into a tale of old-worn hatreds, new-found loves, long-time friendships and family betrayals.

While generally considered a comedy, The Merchant of Venice is one of Shakespeare's most grippingly dramatic plays. When Antonio defaults on a loan for his friend with romantic ambitions, the bitter lender Shylock demands a "pound of flesh" in payment. The legal crisis can only be resolved by a beautiful heroine disguised as a judge. This theatrical feast is rich with intriguing characters that show us how love and forgiveness can bridge the gaps between moral ideals and their imperfect human renderings.

The Merchant of Venice abounds in imagery that centers on deception, vice, and human weakness–and fittingly so. After all, the central characters in the drama are all deeply flawed or disturbed, exhibiting prejudice, hatred, greed, desire for revenge, depression, ignorance.

In today's climate of blurred vision between being cautious and afraid, this BoHo production of The Merchant of Venice mirrors how one reacts and responds to the misgivings (and mistreating) of others.

AT A GLANCE:

The Merchant of Venice
Bohemian Theatre Ensemble
BoHo Theatre @ Heartland Studio, 7016 N. Glenwood
Preview:  Friday, July 25 at 8PM
Opening Night:  Saturday, July 26 at 8PM
Running:  Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8:00, Sundays at 2:00

Through:  Sunday, August 24