VIDEO: First Look at Shakespeare Theatre of NJ's THE MERCHANT OF VENICE

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey kicks off its 55th season with The Merchant of Venice, not seen at The Shakespeare Theatre since 2000. The company released a preview video via Facebook, check it out below:

Acclaimed company member Robert Cuccioli returns to direct. Performances begin on May 17 at the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre located at 36 Madison Avenue, Madison, NJ. Patrons can purchase tickets by calling the Box Office at 973-408-5600 or online at www.ShakespeareNJ.org.

The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare's dark comedy and one of his most controversial tales, is a timely masterpiece that is eerily resonant of our world today. A money-obsessed, patriarchal, dysfunctional society where wealth bestows power; one in which women cannot determine their own fate, and one marked by religious and racial prejudice. A play that offers no true villains or heroes, Shakespeare's Venice represents a culture as complex and troubling as today's, where the situations and questions posed ask to examine the "quality of mercy" in myriad ways.

Taking on the famous role of Shylock is Andrew Weems in his seventh season at The Shakespeare Theatre. His company credits include Accidental Death of an Anarchist,Noises Off, King John, and Rhinoceros, among many others. He has appeared on Broadway in Born Yesterday, Inherit the Wind, The Green Bird, and London Assurance.

Single tickets for The Merchant of Venice are begin at $29 for preview performances and $49 for regular performances. Prices range from $29 - $69. The Theatre is proud to bring back its successful 30 UNDER 30 program for the 2017 season. Patrons aged 30 and under can purchase tickets for only $30 with valid ID, subject to availability. For tickets, patrons can call the Box Office at 973-408-5600 or visit www.ShakespeareNJ.org

To post a comment, you must register and login.