Shylock @ Assembly

A fascinating study of Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice

Feature by Rebecca Paul | 22 Aug 2011

We’re so accustomed to gimmicky rehashes of Shakespeare, it’s a pleasure to discover an intelligent new take on his work; how curious it is to consider the inception of a character like Shylock, to ponder his place in society and why Shakespeare put him there.

Gareth Armstrong’s one-man show, Shylock, does just that. The troublesome character from The Merchant of Venice (one of only two Jews ever to appear in Shakespeare), is explored through his friend (and bit-part) Tubal.

Through a series of clever impersonations, Guy Masterson’s Tubal also ponders the portrayal of the typical Jew in literature. Whilst re-enacting Shylock’s key scenes, he reveals background information about Jewish oppression, citing everything from the Scriptures to Dracula and Hitler.

Humour is a key aspect of the play's success despite its heavy subject matter. Scenes detailing the sadness and oppression are left just long enough to affect us and then Tubal jauntily re-emerges grumbling about the fact he’s a bit part with a mere eight lines of dialogue. Masterson’s performance is fast and furious as he a snaps from one character to another, constantly catching us off-guard. The audience is captivated throughout as he shifts effortlessly from resentful despair to child-like excitement.

Vibrant, poignant, exceptionally well written and beautifully executed.

Until 29 Aug, 15.45

Assembly Hall

http://www.edfringe.com/whats-on/theatre/shylock