Tracy-Ann Oberman to reprise her role in The Merchant of Venice 1936 for West End return and UK tour

In a thrilling return to the stage, Tracy-Ann Oberman is set to reprise her groundbreaking role as Shylock in the critically acclaimed The Merchant of Venice 1936, presented by Trafalgar Theatre Productions, Eilene Davidson Productions and Alan Howard, in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company. This innovative production, directed by Brigid Larmour, will open its doors at London’s Trafalgar Theatre from 28^th December 2024 to 25^th January 2025, before embarking on a keenly anticipated UK tour from 4^th February to 5^th April 2025.

Following a highly successful season at the Criterion Theatre and a sold-out tour across the UK, Oberman’s portrayal of Shylock as the first British actress has been hailed as “the most important Shakespeare production of the year” by the Daily Telegraph. The production is celebrated for its “astonishing, full-blooded performance” and is considered a benchmark for modern Shakespearean theatre, according to Metro.

The Merchant of Venice 1936 transports audiences to 1930s East London amid the tension of the Battle of Cable Street, presenting a poignant narrative against the rise of fascism. Adapted by Brigid Larmour and Oberman, the play tackles themes of ambition, power and political unrest, making it as relevant today as ever. The adaptation has been lauded for its striking and impactful approach, with the Guardian praising its timeliness and the Financial Times describing it as “galvanising”.

Oberman shared her enthusiasm about the production’s return, emphasising the significance of its message in today’s context. “I am so delighted that, by popular demand, The Merchant of Venice 1936 is coming back into the West End so soon after we finished. Demand has been so high that I feel bringing it back, and this time to the beautiful Trafalgar Theatre and then on a national tour, is essential,” Oberman said. She highlighted the personal connection to her portrayal of Shylock, inspired by her Great Grandma’s resilience against fascism in East London, underscoring the play’s message of unity and resistance against hatred.

The production’s creative team also includes Associate Director Oberman, with costume and set design by Liz Cooke, lighting design by Rory Beaton, sound design by Sarah Weltman and music composed by Erran Baron Cohen, ensuring a visually and auditorily engaging experience for audiences.

With a limited season at the Trafalgar Theatre followed by a comprehensive tour across the UK, including stops in Liverpool, Bath, Southend, Salford, Fareham, Leeds, Cardiff and concluding in Birmingham, The Merchant of Venice 1936 offers a unique opportunity to witness a powerful, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s work. Tickets are available at MerchantofVenice1936.co.uk, with performances scheduled from 28^th December 2024 to 5^th April 2025.

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Photo: Marc Brenner

The Merchant of Venice 1936 is at Trafalgar Theatre from 28^th December 2024 until 25^th January 2025. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.