THE stunning setting of Great Malvern Priory will provide the backdrop for one of Shakespeare’s most famous tragic-comedies.

The Worcester Repertory Company will be using the priory’s exceptional atmosphere for two performances of The Merchant of Venice next weekend, October 25 and 26.

This tale of love, greed, faith and mistaken identities, where great friendship conquers all, will be performed on Friday, October 25 at 7.30pm and again at 2.30pm the following day.

Follow failed Venice merchant Bassanio on his quest to win the hand of Portia.

Asking his friend Antonio for money for his quest leads Antonio to Jewish money lender, Shylock. Intent on revenge against Bassanio’s anti-semetic friend, Shylock imposes a fearsome condition on the loan – timely payment or a pound of Antonio’s flesh.

The play unravels to its dramatic end as Antonio defaults on his loan and Shylock attempts to enforce his gruesome penalty.