Stage Left Studio
Left Out Festival 2014
presents

ANTONIO AND SHYLOCK: MONSTERS

Adapted and Directed by DIKRAN TULAINE

Featuring
DIKRAN TULAINE, KC WEAKLEY, LIAM BOBERSKY, TC CORWIN,
CHERYL KING, & KAREN SKLAIRE

Videographers: CHERYL KING & KARIN KEARNS
Board Operator: ELLEN ROSENBERG

Stage Left Studio
214 West 30th Street
6th Floor
New York, NY 10001
April 17 & April 28, 2014
www.stageleftstudio.net

This work is based on Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice” and uses Shakespearian language to tell its tale. It’s a spin-off and of the trial scene where Shylock demands his “pound of flesh”. Concentrating on the complicated relationships of Shylock, Antonio, and Bassanio, the play expands on their characters, their conflicts, and their rationales. It is an exploration of hatred of “others”, whether Jews, Christians, or gays.

Yes, gays. Because some scholars have argued that Antonio was gay and in love with Bassanio. So in love that he was willing to guarantee that pound of flesh.

Two live video feeds add a touch of modern media coverage to the sensational deal and the trial that follows. Antonio sits in the audience while his face is broadcast on a screen above the stage. The traditional “quality of mercy” speech is made. Shylock couldn’t care less. He wants that pound of flesh and nothing can change his mind. Fortunately, the Venetian court his its equivalent of Judge Judy on hand to crack the judicial whip and set everyone straight. In the legal sense, of course. Bazinga!

-Karen D’Onofrio-