Othello
Othello is famous for being Shakespeare’s tragic tale of the Moor of Venice, the story with depths of betrayal, manipulation, and jealousy alongside racial prejudice.
General Othello marries his love Desdemona in secret, resulting in resentment from Roderigo, her suitor and disownment from her father, Brabantio. In steps Othello’s loyal friend and courtier Iago, his position enabling him to whisper untruths into Othello’s ear and gain revenge on Cassio, newly promoted over Iago, and creating suspicion of Desdemona’s faithfulness to her husband. Planting evidence and nurturing Othello’s jealousy and clouding his judgement, Iago has nothing to lose and everything to gain.
This piece has minimal set, leaving instead the focus on the actors and the story. With Costume and Set Design by Judith Bowden, the costumes truly are a delight on the eye, with the magnificent detail and materials used. The set really does frame these designs beautifully.
Tim Carroll’s Direction has each scene flowing into the other, there are no real “scene changes,” instead we have the actors weaving in the next scene as the previous one comes to an end. This shows the audience the fast pace of the way life can change quickly when certain roads are taken.
The Lighting Design by Paule Constable, is equally as impressive, showing the dark motives of Iago and framing his soliloquy’s just enough to put the audience on edge too.
John Douglas Thompson, as Othello, shows the journey from loving husband to his doubting hatred comfortably. His presence is notable from the start and his interactions with Iago and Desdemona are uniquely profound.
Juliet Rylance, as Desdemona, is also delightful to watch. Having defied her father by marrying someone she knows he will surely disapprove of; she still maintains a sense of naivety with other people who should perhaps not have her trust.
Iago is played by Will Keen, and as in the way that only a successful portrayal of an antagonist can be perceived, we dislike him right from the start. Whether you already know the play or not, there is clearly a feeling of distrust from this character, he really should not have any level of power.
The performance, although dark in its themes in certain places, is enjoyable and leaves you questioning how far people will go to achieve what they feel they are entitled to.
This show was reviewed on the 23rd October 2024 at The RSC, Stratford-upon-Avon where it runs until the 23rd November 2024. Tickets available here: Othello | Royal Shakespeare Company
Review written by Rachel Louise Martin
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Photo credit: Johan Persson
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