Left – Anthony Taufa and Lauren Richardson. Cover – Steven Hopley, Lauren Richardson and Anthony Taufa
Situated in a hip backstreets of Darlinghurst, Othello is re-imagined in an intimate theatre, upstairs at TAP Gallery. Being one of the most popular of Shakespearean plays, this one had to be a little different from the rest. This included slight tweaks in the scripting and direction, keeping it fresh. A blackened set and minimal props required a lot from the cast, as all focus was on them. With nowhere to hide, all of the flaws in each character were exemplified. The dynamics of the developing relationships felt more real and at some points, quite hypnotising.
Although the entire cast gave great performances, a special mention goes to the key players: Lauren Richardson as Desdemona, Steven Hopley as Iago and a truly mesmerising display of the spiral into madness by Anthony Taufa as Othello.
In monologues directed at the audience, Hopley’s Iago was devilish yet surprisingly alluring, which makes sense as he is inherently deceitful to both the audience and the characters that he manipulates. The subtleties in Iago’s darkened shirt, hunched back and the way he glared at Othello behind his back showcased his hidden dark side. This was paralleled by his jovial, helpful veneer to others and his fabricated love and commitment to Othello.
Richardson’s Desdemona was innocent, beautiful and courageous. Her performance hit its pinnacle in the final scene where Othello takes her life. Being so close to the actors on stage, the expressions on her face were raw and powerful.
Taufa’s interpretation of Othello was exemplary (as it should be, playing the role for the fifth time!). His crazy eyes of jealousy and epileptic fits allowed for a new perspective and insight into the character. Taufa’s performance was stunning and deeply moving.
As the stage and theatre itself was quite small, the actors could connect with the audience on a more direct level. This includes (quite confronting for some!) eye contact with individual audience members.
Overall, the intensity of the play grew exponentially, becoming more and more captivating as Iago’s plans manifested into reality. A great show for Shakespeare fans, whose works will continue to re-emerge on stages everywhere for many generations to come.
The Sydney Shakespeare Company Presents
Othello
by William Shakespeare
Directed by Steven Hopley
Venue: TAP Gallery (278 Palmer St, Darlinghurst)
Dates: August 10 – 21, 2011
Tickets: $28 Adult/ $24 Concession/Groups of 10 / $14 Preview
Bookings: www.moshtix.com.au | 1300 GETTIX
Sydney Reviews
Othello | Sydney Shakespeare Company
- Details
- Penny Spirou
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