29 Mar 2007 – The Guardian
“One solution to this notoriously problematic play is to give it a clear social context. And, by setting the action in a modern, digitized world, Darko Tresnjak’s production for New York’s Theater for New Audience not only vindicates the company’s title, but gets to the work’s disturbed heart.”

5 Feb 2007 – The New York Times
“In a performance as daring as it is powerful, Mr. Abraham delves into the shadowier recesses of Shylock’s corrupted psyche, making him a little more sinister than sympathetic, sinning as much as sinned against.”

Feb 2007 – American Theater
F. Murray Abraham Devotes a Season to Exploring the “Stage Jew”

18 Feb 2007 – New York Observer
“F. Murray Abraham’s performance as Shylock touches greatness in every aspect…”

8 Feb 2007 – Time Out New York
“The quality of Tresnjak’s staging is mercifully high, and presents the most compelling possible argument for Shylock in the form of F. Murray Abraham, an actor of tremendous dignity and command.”

5 Feb 2007 – The New York Sun
“Darko Tresnjak’s crystalline production of “Merchant,” brought to shimmering life by an exemplary 14-person cast led by F. Murray Abraham.”

29 Mar 2007 – Telegraph
“…a notably fresh, unexpectedly entertaining production…F Murray Abraham…plays Shylock with a massive, granite-like dignity.”

1 Apr 2007 – The Independent
Abraham “somehow carries the weight of centuries of Jew-bating and brings to mind other religious conflicts – not least Christian vs Muslim. The hi-tech concept and complicated racial tensions, including black servants, are seen through in detail. Director Darko Tresnjak also shapes speeches powerfully, shifting from cool logic to erupting pain and anger.”