Photo Flash: First Look at Patrick Stewart in RSC's MERCHANT OF VENICE

Stage and screen star Patrick Stewart stars in the Royal Shakespeare Company production of THE MERCHANT OF VENICE, directed by Rupert Goold. Set in Las Vegas, the production runs through October 4.

THE MERCHANT OF VENICE is one of Shakespeare's most thrilling and controversial plays, rich with love and betrayal, forgiveness and revenge. The Jewish moneylender Shylock makes a loan to Antonio, a Christian merchant. Their loan contract, steeped in prejudice and centered on the play's infamous "pound of flesh," sweeps the two men and everyone in their worlds into chaos. Only the insightful Portia can imagine a way forward, but for her and those she loves, even "the quality of mercy" has its limits.

For more information, visit: www.rsc.org.uk/whats-on/merchant

Photo Credit: Ellie Kurtz