Antonio borrows money from the cruel Shylock to help his friend Bassanio court the wealthy heiress, Portia, but there's a dreadful penalty if the loan is not repaid - a pound of Antonio's own flesh. A brilliant comedy that calls forth some of Shakespeare's most lyrical love poetry, The Merchant of Venice reaches a courtroom climax in which the opposing values of justice and mercy must be resolved. Performed by Hadyn Gwynne, Bill Nighy, and the Arkangel cast.