Watch our 'inspired' ★★★★ (The Guardian) and 'profound' ★★★★ (Evening Standard) 2024 production of Shakespeare’s blistering tragedy, Othello, filmed live in the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.

Celebrated by many, Othello has risen through the ranks. But can his hard-won reputation, his marriage to Desdemona, and his own subconscious survive the toxic systems that surround him? Sixteenth-century Venice becomes modern-day London, as Othello grapples with many of the same issues that successful Black people have faced for centuries.

This is an Othello for our times.

Following 2021’s Romeo & Juliet (★★★★‘bold, clever, energetic’, The Guardian) in the Globe Theatre, Director Ola Ince debuts in the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse with Shakespeare’s confronting look at the destructive impact of institutional racism, toxic masculinity, and a justice system locked in a vicious cycle of self-fulfilling prophecy.

Synopsis

Brabantio, the Commander, is angered to learn of Othello’s secret marriage to his daughter, Desdemona. Othello is brought before him, and attempts to prove his innocence by calling in Desdemona to confirm her willingness to marry him. As Detective Chief Inspector, Othello is sent to deal with a criminal cartel in the Docklands and entrusts Desdemona to a detective sergeant, Iago. Iago, bitter at being overlooked for promotion, projects his hatred on Othello and plots a way of destroying him.

Running time: 160 mins

Content guidance: The play contains issues of domestic abuse, misogyny, anti-black racism and offensive language. The play also contains violence, including murder, references to suicide, and scenes of a sexual nature. This production features the use of stage blood and weapons (including prop guns, tasers, knives and batons), flashing lights and loud gunshots. 

Post-Show Resources

Othello engages with many themes including gender, mental health, violence, and domestic abuse. Race is a crucial context of the play and a powerful undercurrent in the events that occur. Click here to view some suggested resources for those who may be affected by the play’s themes, or for those who want to read further about Shakespeare, this production, Anti-Racist Shakespeare and more.