ONE of Shakespeare’s most famous tragic comedies - and my favourite of his plays - has been brought to life in a spectacular setting.

Worcester Repertory Company’s current production, The Merchant of Venice, is the second in the annual Shakespeare at the Cathedral, an ongoing venture between Cathedral Arts and Worcester Live.

Set in the Italian town of Venice, Bassanio, a young and noble Venetian, attempts to win the heart of the beautiful, rich and wise heiress Portia.

After asking his friend, the merchant Antonio for money so he can be considered a suitor, he is deferred to Shylock, a wealthy Jewish merchant who agrees to lend the sum of 3,000 ducats - but at a price.

Shylock agrees to the proposition on the condition that if the money is not returned within the agreed time he will take a pound of Antonio’s flesh.

Robert Myler’s stirling performance as the Jewish merchant Shylock, was convincing and powerful and for me, stole the show.

He delivered Shylock’s famous speech, “Hath not a Jew eyes? Hath not a Jew hands, organs,. dimensions, senses, affections, passions?” with such raw emotion it is hard not to feel for a man who often falls to the mercy of ani-Semitism by the wealthy Anthonio.

Light relief came in the scenes with the fair Portia and her two princely suitors, who try and win her hand by correctly choosing from one of three caskets, gold silver and lead.

Liz Grand’s portrayal of Portia captures the humour of the situation but also her disatisfaction with her potential suitors.

I loved Ben Humphrey’s hilarious performance as the Prince of Arragon, who did not fail to amuse and delight in equal measure.

For all of Shylock’s faults - and despite his absolute conviction in cutting off a pound of flesh from Antonio - I never fail to feel for him in his final court scene.

Shakespeare offers two sides of the coin in this tale of love, greed, faith, mercy and ultimately friendship.

A thought-provoking and entertaining performance.

The Merchant of Venice runs until Friday (18).