The Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park wants your theatergoing experience to be as enjoyable as possible. Following is a list of content within Othello that may be of concern to some members of our audience. Please understand that some information may give away surprises within the story. The information is provided to help you make informed decisions. Keep in mind, however, that the language and themes outlined below, taken out of context, may seem more offensive than they would be within the context of the actual play. This information will continue to be updated until the opening of the show to address any changes that may occur throughout the rehearsal process. Please check back often. |
| |
It’s Shakespeare in the Shelterhouse as one of the Bard’s most compelling tragedies is made all the more moving by the intimate setting. As the play begins Iago is conspiring with Roderigo. Iago is angered at being passed over for the coveted role of first lieutenant to the Moorish General Othello. In place of Iago, Othello has named the younger Michael Cassio, who Iago believes lacks significant experience for the position.
Iago devises a plan for revenge. Othello has recently taken as his wife the beautiful Venetian girl Desdemona. Iago and Roderigo, who harbors feelings for the girl, go to her father, the powerful Senator Brabantio, who is much angered by the news and threatens imprisonment for Othello. They all appear before the Duke, who has hastily summoned Othello on important state matters: a Turkish fleet is approaching Cyprus and Othello is charged with warding off the invasion. Before discharging Othello, however, the Duke sends for Desdemona, who denies that she left her home against her will, states that she loves her husband and begs to be sent with him to battle. The Duke agrees, and Iago and his own wife Emilia are charged with Desdemona’s safekeeping.
The war ends quickly, but the arrangements guarantee Iago a closer proximity to both Othello and Desdemona and allow him to put his villainy in action. He embarks on a plan to convince Othello that Desdemona is secretly having an affair with none other than Cassio. He enlists Roderigo in provoking Cassio to fight. Inebriated, Cassio lets his temper get the best of him and accidentally injures a man of some fame and nobility in Cyprus, resulting in his removal from Othello’s good graces.
Iago then convinces Cassio to turn to Desdemona for aid, asking her to entreat for Othello’s forgiveness on his behalf. Then, Iago poisons Othello’s mind with suspicious details about Desdemona and Cassio. Her continued pleading for the man, a misplaced handkerchief and outright lies by Iago all form a sinister plot set to ruin Othello and everyone around him.
This highly charged tale of jealousy, love, revenge and murder explores the overwhelming and sometimes destructive power of human emotion. With its racing plot and intense dramatic details, Othello is one of Shakespeare’s most exciting, intriguing and heartbreaking plays.
|
