The Merchant of Venice (The Secret Theatre)

This mounting of the Bard's troublesome comedy shines a spotlight on anti-Semitism while still finding the laughs in the romantic subplots. Young suitor Bassanio needs some cash so he can woo the elegant Portia in style. We're talking a team of servants, a new set of fancy threads, and plenty of bling to impress the rich heiress. The problem is, Bassanio's broke. His best friend Antonio would personally lend him the cash, but all of his money is tied up in ventures involving a bunch of merchant ships and a harrowing sea. So Antonio suggests Bassanio borrow money from Shylock, using his buddy's good credit as collateral. Shylock agrees to the loan, but asks for a pound of Antonio's flesh as a guarantee. Shylock acts like it's all in 'merry sport,' but when he ends up demanding his bond in a big courtroom showdown, nobody's laughing.