The show will begin Sept. 2 and play through Nov. 12. Barbara Gaines directs.
Also in the cast are Scott Jaeck as Antonio; Kate Fry as Portia; Timothy Edward Kane as Bassanio; Kevin Gudahl as Gratiano; Jay Whittaker as Solanio; Bruce A. Young as the Prince of Morocco; Rengin Altay as Nerissa; Bethany Caputo as Jessica; William Dick as Salerio; Matt Hawkins as Lorenzo; Blaine Hogan as Launcelot Gobbo; and Johnny Lee Davenport.
Scenic design is by Daniel Ostling, lighting design is by Robert Wierzel, sound design by Lindsay Jones, and costume design by Mariann Verheyen.
Nussbaum grew up with the Chicago theatre movement, starring in Northlight Theatre's first production—Tom Stoppard's Jumpers, directed by Frank Galati—in 1974. Since then, he has appeared on every important Chicago stage, from Steppenwolf to the Goodman to the Organic, forming a particular bond with native son, playwright David Mamet. Nussbaum originated the role of Teach in American Buffalo and starred in the premieres of Glengarry Glen Ross, Life in the Theater and The Shawl. He has acted in Mamet's films as well, including "House of Games." More recently, Nussbaum played a 86-year-old Jewish widower in the Chicago premiere of Visiting Mr. Green, and acted in Bruce Norris' play, The Infidel, at Steppenwolf.
Nussbaum is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Joseph Jefferson Committee and a Legend Award from the Illinois Arts Council. For further information call (312) 595-5600 or visit www.chicagoshakes.com.