21st Century Merchant of Venice, adaptation by Carol Allen/McFarland Ray Productions

The project is a 21st-century adaptation of Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice. Although the play was written in the closing years of the 16th Century, the themes of cultural and racial prejudice, conflict and the empowerment of women still resonate today. This radical and contemporary view of the play now has several characters that are black, Asian and gay to reflect today’s multicultural society. Antonio is a wealthy Muslim who suppresses his sexuality because of his religion; Shylock is now a high-flying woman in the world of finance; and Portia and Nerissa take control of their lives and create their own emancipation.

This is a not-for-profit production to help young Actors & Actresses from London experience performing live & get exposure to the public.