Pop Smart - See & Do: Theater: The Merchant of Venice

Georgia Shakespeare courts controversy by staging THE MERCHANT OF VENICE, historically one of Shakespeare’s most puzzling plays. Beneath the trappings of light romantic comedy, Merchant features the antagonistic role of bloodthirsty moneylender Shylock (Chris Kayser), one of Shakespeare’s most vivid characters, yet the embodiment of some of the Elizabethan era’s anti-Semitic stereotypes. Frequently Shakespeare’s “problem plays” provide the most interesting productions, and The Merchant of Venice also features the talents of Park Krausen, Tess Malis Kincaid, Joe Knezevich, Allen O’Reilly and others, beginning Thurs., JUNE 26. Through Aug. 2. $15-$40. In repertory Tues.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 2 and 8 p.m. Georgia Shakespeare, Conant Performing Arts Center, 4484 Peachtree Road. 404-264-0020. www.gashakespeare.org.

(Photo by Ken Reid)