Jealousy fuels the downward spiral that is Othello’s demise in one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies that has been touring the North-West and comes to The Lantern Theatre between the 11th and 13th April.
Believing Othello has promoted the fast-rising Cassio over himself, Iago plots to destroy them both by convincing the Moor that his beautiful wife Desdemona is unfaithful, and that Cassio is her lover.
Black Box Theatre Company is Liverpool’s award-winning theatre company, founded in 1994, with an excellent eighteen year track record for adapting and performing classic literature – Of Mice and Men (2012) An Inspector Calls (2011) Hamlet (2010), Romeo & Juliet (2008).
“The relevance of the plot in today’s society is never stronger”, admits director Ian Moore. “The piece touches upon many issues society struggles with, even today, those of racism, religion and gender equality. We try not to skirt around these very important elements of the classic”, adds Ian.
The role of Othello is played by Liverpool-based actor Shawn John who is making a huge transformation from his most recent role as Crooks in Of Mice and Men, which toured recently. Examining the character who’s shoes he will fill, John admits, “ Othello’s supposed friend Iago (Ben Jewel) finds Othello’s Achilles heal and fully exploits Othello’s jealousy forcing his ruination. He is so blinded by his jealousy as well as being duped by Iago, he is also unable to trust Desdemona’s faithfulness, and in a fit of rage is compelled to take her life.”
Lucy Peacock plays the ill-fated Desdemona. Also cast are Thomas Casson as Roderigo, Sam Gannon as Cassio, Mike Sanders as Brabantio and Megan Rogers as Emilia.
Tickets for Othello at The Lantern Theatre are priced at £10 with concessions available at £8. Tickets are available to buy calling 0151 7030000.
Ian D. Hall