A unique community event coming to Barrie this weekend is using Shakespeare’s work as a starting point for a deeper, timely conversation about anti‑Semitism, harmful stereotypes and how the arts can help dismantle them.
“Shakespearience,” an interactive event examining anti‑Semitism through Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, will take place Saturday, April 19 at 2 p.m. at Am Shalom Synagogue on Huronia Road. The event is being presented in partnership with Jewish Mamas of Barrie, Am Shalom Congregation, the National Council of Jewish Women Simcoe County, and PJ Library Simcoe County.
The production blends professional theatrical performance with guided discussion, creating what organizers describe as a safe, thoughtful space for learning and dialogue. While The Merchant of Venice is the featured work, organizers stress that prior knowledge of Shakespeare—or even an interest in theatre—is not required.
You just have to be interested and have an open mind and come to learn.
The discussion centres on the portrayal of Shylock, one of Shakespeare’s most controversial characters, and on how anti‑Semitic stereotypes have been created and reinforced through art over centuries. The Merchant of Venice uses the word “Jew” in a derogatory way 37 times, and historically, audiences were encouraged to boo Shylock when he appeared on stage.
“At the time that The Merchant of Venice was written… the Jews had been expelled from England a long time prior,” organizer Alissa Hanslip told Barrie 360. “So when Shakespeare wrote it, it was from that lens. So it’s very interesting how time has portrayed Shylock both as a villain and humanizes him.”
Listen below to our interview with Alissa Hanslip and Pam Litinsky. It begins at the 31:45 mark.
Organizers say the event is especially relevant as conversations around tolerance, misinformation and identity continue to surface both globally and locally. While Barrie is widely viewed as a welcoming community, they acknowledge concerns still exist.
The hope is Shakespearience will encourage people to ask questions, listen, and engage - rather than rely on assumptions or online misinformation.
For organizers, Shakespearience is just one step in a broader journey toward understanding.
“If people would just realize that we’re human… we just want to live our lives happy,”said Hanslip. “All they just need to do is ask instead of assume.”
Admission is $36 for adults and $18 for students, but organizers stress that cost should not prevent anyone from attending. Anyone needing assistance is encouraged to contact Am Shalom Congregation directly at 705‑792‑3949.
