Bursting onto stage, Yasser (William El-Gardi) startles us with his immediate anger, frustration and perhaps nerves. A charming and likeable individual, he effortlessly draws us into his tale.
Yasser is due to perform the part of Shylock Shakespeare’s Jewish money lender in a performance of The Merchant of Venice, in an hour but his suitcase has been stolen.
William leads us on a journey back to his childhood, up to present day, sharing with us his angst ridden memories of his father and the passion for his country, while he questions if a Palestinian should be playing a Jew?
Interplayed with this, rather odd announcements over the theatre audio system can be listened, which brings an original if jarring touch to the performance. Although humorous in places, they act as a gentle reminder that time is ticking away, adding to Yasser’s dilemma.
Skipping back to his childhood and then to present day sometimes confuses the audience and with a lightning fast pace its easy to get lost. Buying the program is essential as this gives a structure which to follow and some helpful knowledge of Palestine and the occupied territories.
Well acted and full of fascinating insights into the important characters in a man’s life this is an excellent production.
Humorous and intelligent, Yasser is highly recommended.
4/5 
Michael Bulman
