The Merchant of Venice

The Melbourne Shakespeare Company has delivered another spritely, inviting version of a well-worn text and made it relevant, funny and above all engaging.

Lucy May Knight (Jessica/servant), Jackson Cross (Lorenzo), Eleni Vettos (Portia) and Orion Carey-Clark (Brassiano), delighted as the strong central couples.  The more comedic couple, Andrew Cullimore (Gratiano) and Amanda McKay (Nerrisa) provided seamless support for them.  

Maxwell Simon (Launcelot Gobbo) delighted with his antics and physicality. Takudzwa Alois Chipanura added gravitas as the Duke of Venice, but it was during his introductions of the suitors (Donald McManus) for Jessica when he shone.

The well- known speeches were delivered with robust authenticity and Shelley Krape as Shylock brought some of the more difficult issues covered in the text to aching currency. Chris Broadstock (Antonio) provided the counter example of loyal and generous friendship.

The setting in the Rose Garden and rotunda was used to advantage. The simple costumes (Cortnee Jarvis) worked well and supported quick changes.

Music (Natalie Calia), which is a feature of Melbourne Shakespeare’s productions, was particularly well done with a range of songs from “Minnie the Moocher” to “Hit the Road Jack” and a Jewish chant all contributing. The audience robustly joined in when invited.

No doubt Shakespeare was a genius, and when his writing is respected and enjoyed as it is in this production the audience can only go away satisfied.

Ruth Richter

Photographer: Chelsea Neate