Our 2023 production was William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice produced in association with VillaGaiety. This open-air theatre experience sold out prior to the production opening and then a further two times once extra tickets were released.
Antonio, the Merchant of Venice, lends money to his friend Bassanio in order to assist him in wooing the wealthy and beautiful Portia of Belmont.
Antonio’s own money is tied up in international business ventures, so he borrows the money from Shylock, a Jewish moneylender whom he has previously insulted for his high rates of interest.
Shylock, aggrieved at the anti-semitism levelled at the Jewish community, agrees to lend the money on the condition of an unusual bond. Failure to repay the loan on the agreed date will entitle Shylock to a pound of Antonio’s flesh.
When Antonio can’t repay the loan, Shylock demands a pound of his flesh. A Court battle ensues…
This production was in association with VillaGaiety and proudly supported by Ravenscroft and Manx Radio
| Character | Cast Member |
| Shylock | Thomas Iain Dixon |
| Portia | Bryony Grant |
| Antonio | John Walker |
| Jessica | Meg Walker |
| Bassanio | Daniel Sebastian Gray |
| Gratiano | Peter Shimmin |
| Lorenzo | Ben Gale |
| Nerissa | Jade Boylan |
| Launcelot Gobbo | Orry Wilson |
| The Prince of Morocco | Alex Duncan |
| The Prince of Arragon | Geoffrey Pugh |
| Salarino | Charlie Williams |
| Salanio | Sean Reaney |
| The Duke of Venice | Chris Jagus |
| Tubal | Andy Williams |
Director – David Dawson
Assistant Director – Sarah Holland
Head of Wardrobe – Jude Fullerton
Producers – Alex Armstrong & Charlie Williams
Parodos Theatre Company 