Shylock versus Portia – A Shakespeare Mock Trial

After a hiatus of two years, the Society is excited to resume the Mock Trial project.

Our premise is that after the events depicted in The Merchant of Venice, Shylock discovers that Doctor of Laws “Balthazar” was really Portia in disguise, so neither a man nor a lawyer. In a civil lawsuit, he sues her for tortious interference with contract. The Duke of Venice, regretting the outcome of the earlier case as it damaged the city’s reputation for fairness (and thus its commercial prospects), allows Shylock’s lawsuit against Portia to proceed.

Cast and participants:

• Judge: Bryan H. Wildenthal

• Clerk: Bill Glaser

• Plaintiff’s attorney: Susan Benninghoff

• Defendant’s attorney: Samuel W. Bettwy

• Shylock: Josh Freeman

• Antonio: Kevin Manley

• Portia: Janaki Stoeckley

• Playwright and Understudy: Gordon L. Gidlund

The members of the audience will serve as the jury and deliver a verdict by voice vote.

A talk-back session will also take place after the conclusion of the trial.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Mission Valley Library, 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, United States