Play

The Merchant of Venice 1936

Booking Info

Ambition, power and political unrest explode onto the stage in The Merchant of Venice 1936, direct from the RSC. Starring Tracy-Ann Oberman (Eastenders, Doctor Who) as Shylock, Shakespeare’s classic is transported to 1930s Britain in this “striking and impactful” (Guardian) new production that “makes theatre history” (The Telegraph), from acclaimed director Brigid Larmour.

Tensions in London’s East End are rising and Shylock, a resilient single mother and hard-working businesswoman, is desperate to protect her daughter’s future. When the charismatic merchant Antonio comes to her for a loan, a high-stakes deal is struck. Will Shylock take her revenge, and who will pay the ultimate price?

If you prick us do we not bleed?
If you poison us do we not die?
And if you wrong us shall we not revenge?

Don’t miss this unforgettable, electrifying new production of The Merchant of Venice, a “fascinating and timely” (Daily Mail) reminder of a key moment in British history.

Dates
15 Feb - 23 Mar
Venue
Criterion Theatre
Running Time
2 Hours with interval
Latecomer Policy
Latecomers many not be admitted.
Age Recommendations
Not recommended for Under 11s
Warnings
The Merchant of Venice 1936 contains themes of racism, including antisemitism
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VENUE INFORMATION

Criterion Theatre

Criterion Theatre, 218-223 Piccadilly St. James's London W1J 9HR

The Criterion is an independent theatre located on Picadilly Circus in London’s West End. The Criterion is on Piccadilly Circus south-east side, by The Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain (Eros). The theatre entrance faces the statue. Piccadilly Circus tube station, exit 4, brings you to the front of the theatre.

View on Google Maps

Underground and Train

Piccadilly Circus (1 minute walk) - Piccadilly Line and Bakerloo Line Leicester Square (Approx 10 minute walk) - Piccadilly Line and Northern Line Green Park (Approx 10 minute walk) - Piccadilly Line and Victoria Line. This station has step free access to street level.

Plan your journey with TFL

Bus

Regent Street / St James - Outside Tesco 12, 88, 94, 453, N3, N15. Regent Street / St James - Outside Tesco 6, 9, 139, 159, N9, N18, N97, N109, N136. Haymarket / Jermyn Street R - Outside TigerTiger 6, 9, 139, N9, N15, N13.

Full Venue Transport information

FAQS

The venue have very limited cloakroom space at the theatre, consequently they are unable to accommodate large bags or suitcases and advise patrons to bring with them only essential, handbag size, bags.  The charge for depositing items is £1.00 per item.

There are bars situated on the Dress Circle and Stalls auditorium levels.  Drinks may be taken into the auditorium and staff can offer assistance purchasing beverages if customers are unable to access the bar areas.  You can also pre-order via the CrowdEngage pre-show text sent out on the day of your booking to pre-order for at seat service.

Please be aware that if you arrive late to the theatre you may be asked to wait for a suitable break before entering the auditorium, which may be the interval. You may be asked to sit in different seats to those which you originally booked until the interval in order to minimise disruption to those customers already inside the auditorium.

If you leave the auditorium during the performance to use the toilet, bar, or for any other reason you may have to wait until a suitable break in the performance before being able to re-enter. This may be the interval.

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