You might not recognize this as a play from Shakespeare - they're not in traditional 16th century dress, after all. But this is indeed a scene from Tennessee Stage Company's version of The Merchant of Venice. This tale of greed, racism, and the quality of mercy is being performed 1950s mob style, with gangsters, big hair, and New Jersey accents. I'm not sure I like it as well as the 'traditional" renderings of Shakespeare, but I'll give them points for creativity.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Bridge and Tunnel Bard
You might not recognize this as a play from Shakespeare - they're not in traditional 16th century dress, after all. But this is indeed a scene from Tennessee Stage Company's version of The Merchant of Venice. This tale of greed, racism, and the quality of mercy is being performed 1950s mob style, with gangsters, big hair, and New Jersey accents. I'm not sure I like it as well as the 'traditional" renderings of Shakespeare, but I'll give them points for creativity.
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7 comments:
It sure looks different. How was it?
The most powerful performance I've ever seen was done in the round with the actors dressed in ordinary clothes. There was absolutely nothing to distract attention from the play itself so though I'd find the setting here interesting it's really not as important as good acting.
Your photo is well chosen. There are some great attitudes there...
Good to see them trying something to do something new with it. It looks quite good.
OMG! give me this anyday over Shakespere as it is supposed to be done. I know as a Brit I'm not supposed to be saying that, but perleease it can get a bit po faced, from one who has sat through many a play.
West Side Story is the difinitive version of Romeo and Juiliet for me. Re the wine post, one apoligises forthwith for her gutteral language.Blog moderators twas much ado about nothing,my Eliza Doolittle phase has pased and tonight I am my fair lady. In other words I'm sober!
Shakespeare in the Park starts here pretty soon. Ours will not be as cool, I'm afraid.
re: tax-free . . . I bought a computer during tax-free weekend in April. this time, my purchases were much less costly. . . just a few delicates. ;-)
THis looks like fun. I don't think a new twist ever hurts. Maybe Shakespeare picked up a couple of new admirers.
Won't it be even more interesting if they turned it into a musical?
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