MR. TAVARES AS "SHYLOCK."

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume 2, Issue 118, 4 September 1877, Page 3

MR. TAVARES AS "SHYLOCK."

to the editor of the akaroa mail. Sir, —I have noticed the usual weekly dramatic critique by " Eupolis," in the Canterbury Times, Avhere, commenting upon Mr Tavares " Shylock," he is particularly, and, I think, unnecessarily severe Avith his costume for that character, viz. : Mr Tavares A\-as the " Shylock," and Avas " remarkable for nothing so much as for wearing a costume which had a large conspicuously embroidered cross on the left arm! This is one of the most unpardonable errors of dress I should think that has CA r er been committed on the stage. The idea of a Jewish accuser, in the presence of a Christian tribunal, Avearing the emblem of his adversaries creed ; Avhy, it is monstrous!" Now, Sir, taking into consideration the intense hatred " Shylock " evinces and does not seem afraid to disguise towards the Christians around him, I take it that very likely he was obliged to Avear the, to him, " hated sign of the Cross " as a mark of derision to his feelings or penalty for his outspoken language, or perhaps a refinement of persecution on the part of the Magnincoes of Venice towards the Jews at that period. I remember, nearly a quarter of a century back, seeing G. V. Brook, the great tragedian, upon his arrival in Melbourne, perform in the " Merchant of Venice." G. V. B's Avardrobe Avas Avell known to be costly, extensive, and correct, and his costume for " Shylock " was conspicuous for a large blood, red cross embroidered on his humble Jewish Gabardine ; therefore Mr Tavares costume niay be traditionally correct after all; and " Eupolis" Avill be none the worse .for knowing his Aveekly production is read Avith pleasure by. old playgoers, Avho Avill correct him Avhen required.—Yours, &c, '■■-■• ■■' CAM. '