Director David Wheeler brought to the stage the maximum power of Shakespear’s controversial talent in this fantastic production of The Merchant of Venice.
Audiences that could not get enough at the conclusion of each act applauded the superb performances upon the conclusion of every scene.The production is a celebration of every actor and the masterful work of Director David Wheeler who communicated Shakespeare’s genius and acting of the highest quality through Staci Johnson playing Portia as well as the collateral role of a man who portrays the ultimate expression of unconditional love and rescues both Bassanio and his best friend Antonio played by Geoffry Wander.
Bassanio played by Matt Monaco fulfills the highest expectations of excellence in this difficult role of courage, humility, loyalty and virtue, affections marginalized by today’s standards.
Carmen Smith plays Nerissa, the virtuous lady in waiting. She brings a fresh flavor of honesty and female camaraderie to her supporting role as confidante and friend. Emotions fly through every scene as the characters strive to negotiate with Shylock portrayed by Kevin Muster who displays a stunning aptitude for reality delivering the blood-thirsty Shylock’s thirst for revenge in his demand for justice at the cost of Antonio’ Flesh.
The audience applauded to an encore continuously for five minutes. This powerful drama will stay with you for many years to come and definitely worth every minute of your time. There is no dollar measure for the value in talent that these actors give to the Merchant of Venice. Students from Yuba City High school filled a Thursday morning performance of the Merchant of Venice. Clinton Hill of Yuba City High said, “It’s good and quite impressive, it’s much better quality than other plays I’ve seen.”
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