POCKET MERCHANT to Play The Marlowe Theatre, Nov 5-9

ONE of Shakespeare's darkest comedies is brought to life in a shortened version at The Marlowe Studio next month.

Pocket Merchant, by Propeller, is based on The Merchant Of Venice, an uncompromising tale of greed and revenge. When Bassanio falls in love with the wealthy Portia, he becomes imprisoned in a bargain with a ruthless moneylender. A pound of flesh is sought, and time is fast running out to untangle the trap of his own making.

Pocket Merchant, directed by Edward Hall, provides an inspiring introduction not only to Shakespeare, but also to the highest quality English theatre around and is suitable for those aged 11 and over.

It is at The Marlowe Studio from Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 November (various performance times). Tickets are £12 (concessions available), from the Box Office on 01227 787787 or at marlowetheatre.com. After each performance, the audience is invited to stay for a question-and-answer session with the cast.