Act III, Scene i
Hello there, stranger! Wow -- production has really slowed down on these. September was our first S. Jr!-less month since we got things started back in April. Happily, this feels manageable. And we're still all enjoying ourselves!
So... this is a problematic play. As a result, we decided to go for a super recognizable and beautiful moment from it -- a scene featuring one of Shakespeare's most beloved monologues. We also made Shylock female. As if the guy needed new reasons to be marginalized in sixteenth century Europe.
Here's what's gone down prior to this point in the play:
Antonio (the titular merchant) has borrowed money from Shylock to help his buddy woo the wealthy Portia. Not so fond of Antonio (who is an antisemite), Shylock has secured the promise of a pound of Antonio's flesh should he default, which is beginning to look likely. Meanwhile, Shylock's daughter Jessica has run off with a bunch of his money and jewels.
At the risk of stating the obvious, I feel compelled to declare that we at Shakespeare Jr! repudiate all forms of hatred, including antisemitism, and we regret any discomfort or harm this play may have caused in the past. Hopefully our rendition emphasizes the humanity (and cuteness!) of its two Jewish characters.
Sorry about the wind!
Music credits:
"Arrivederci Roma" by Jack Jezzro
"Tra Veglia & Sonno" by Jack Jezzro
"The Godfather Waltz" by Jack Jezzro
"Mio Dolce Sogno" by Jack Jezzro
"Black Friday" by Steely Dan
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