History's greatest playwright gets reworked by the East London massive. In this fresh, new take on the classic The Merchant of Venice – one of Shakespeare's best-loved comedies – gets revamped for a modern audience, without losing any of the genius of the original. In modern Venice, where austerity prevails for all but those at the top, Portia, a wealthy heiress, is looking for a suitor. Bassanio borrows money from Antonio to finance his attempt to win her over. Antonio in turn, takes a loan out from the moneylender Shylock. When the contract is broken, racial tensions boil over in electrifying courtroom scenes, where Shakespeare's most unforgettable outcast demands his pound of flesh. Made up of both professionals and amateurs, East London Shakespeare Company brings the richness of the bard to a new community. Valid student ID is required for student tickets.