“Othello” at the Royal Shakespeare Company (Through August 28, 2015)
“Othello” at the Royal Shakespeare Company (Through August 28, 2015) By William Shakespeare Directed by Iqbal Khan Reviewed by George Caulton Theatre Reviews Limited
“I am not what I am” (Othello, Act I, Scene 1)
It is beyond human nature to supress emotions of jealousy, alienation and deceit. But what happens when these feelings become physical, and inevitably test the boundaries of the human psyche?
Iqbal Khan’s remarkable rendition of Shakespeare’s tragedy, possesses a wild inventiveness that thoroughly yet elegantly explores the peaks and troughs of the human thought process. Last performed in 2004 at the RSC’s compact Swan Theatre under direction of Gregory Doran, Khan surpasses expectations though providing a veritable smorgasbord of inspiring characterisation, captivating music and impressive set design. As always at the RSC, the diversification of on-stage attributes fantastically contributing to creating the notion of Khan’s ‘recognisable world’ (21st century) whilst celebrating the epic brilliance of Shakespeare’s globally renowned tragedy.
With academy award winning actors ranging from Laurence Olivier to Chiwetel Ejiofor, Hugh Quarshie successfully establishes his name amongst the many other greats in effectively depicting the compulsive and obsessive nature of Othello. With powerful monologues and dramatic expression, the excellence of Quarshie’s characterisation allures the audience to anticipate the devastating hamartia of Othello with the aid of personal tormentor Iago (played by Lucian Msamati). With both Quarshie and Msamati playing Othello and Iago, Khan adds a different dimension to the play raising new questions on race and alienation which merely challenges the term ‘outsider’, indefinitely providing new interpretations which grants the audience with further food for thought on the typical themes and insights of the classic play.
Despite it taking a substantial amount of time to warm to Joanna Vanderman (Desdemona), her flare and natural aptitude of performing was clearly exemplified in the second act until the devastating and teeth-gritting climax of Shakespeare’s tragedy.
Fantastic contributions too from Ayesha Dharker (Emilia) who clearly knew her role as Desdemona’s attendant with outstanding authenticity and spine- tingling harmonics in Act 4, Scene 3.
Khan’s production of ‘Othello’ runs till 28th August 2015 at RSC Stratford-upon-Avon’s main auditorium space.
CEOExpress
