Shakespeare’s famous line “Hath not a Jew eyes?” was echoed on the Charleston Alley Theatre stage in the opening weekend of the company’s 100th production of “The Merchant of Venice.”

The play follows the politics of race, love and law in 16th century Venice.

Antonio, the titular merchant and Christian, finds himself in need of money to back a friend’s business ventures. Antonio can only turn to his rival Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, for help.

The plan, however, quickly begins to turn sour when Antonio finds himself unable to repay the loan and is instead forced to pay the price of a pound of flesh closest to his heart, drawing in lovelorn players from across the city to the ensuing court trial.

Duke Bagger, who played Shylock as well as directed the play, said he thought the play was well received by audiences for its humor as well as dramatic elements.

“I think with Shakespeare most people don’t know what to expect, especially when the most popular parts of the show are the demand for a heart as the price,” Bagger said. “It’s actually a love story.”

Bagger said he leaves the choice for the audience to determine whether or not Shylock is supposed to be seen as sympathetic in his price of flesh or is instead a villain out of line with society. Regardless, Bagger said he still enjoy his scenes as Shylock.

“It’s up to the audience to decide,” Bagger said. “I am really fond of the trial scene. And who doesn’t like ‘Hath a Jew not eyes?’”

In fact, Bagger said this was a perfect time for him and the CAT to stage “The Merchant of Venice.”

“I’m old and I’m a curmudgeon,” he said. “I figured I could do Shylock.”

Derek J. Wintermann, who played a variety of roles in the play, said he thought Bagger’s direction to have characters directly address audience members, created an exciting environment for the actors as well as viewers.

“I think it actually gets people more into the show,” Wintermann said. “Instead of making them further away it draws them in. It’s kind of like wrestling on steroids.”

Stacy McDermit, from Springfield, said Saturday’s performance was her first time seeing “The Merchant of Venice” on stage.

McDermit said she found the play’s sense of humor delightful and accessible and encourages community members to come out and see it.

“I think Shakespeare is always relevant,” McDermit said. ”People can forget that.”

“The Merchant of Venice” will complete its run at the Charleston Alley Theatre April 27-30.

Andrew Crivilare can be reached at 581-2812 or at [email protected]