Review: Othello in Bryant Park Shakespeare

           The Drilling Company’s production of Othello in Bryant Park Shakespeare was a rhapsody rather than a telegram to the audience––accessible and sharp at the same time.

Othello (Emmanuel Elpenord), a character defined almost exclusively by his race and foolish innocence, was plain but emotional; his romantic moments with Desdemona (Liz Livingston) felt authentic and tender, and Othello’s epileptic fit was poignant and memorable. His presence, an ode to Othello’s military status, was booming and powerful while free of preying violence.

Perhaps Shakespeare’s most defined character is the wicked Iago (David Marantz), who makes cruel and bold decisions without second-guessing himself. Although Marantz fumbled over several lines quite noticeably, his performance was skillfully crafted to nuance his character. The refreshing lighter moments, such as a drinking song which recalled the American South, felt consistent thanks to the contrast of Marantz’s gravely and ominous voice.

Though Emilia (Karla Hendrick) lacked much-needed intimacy with Desdemona in the majority of the play, her high-stakes emotional delivery in the last scene––the most haunting and unforgettable moment of the entire performance––carried the energy and urgency of the story until its end.

The direction by Hamilton Clancy reflected some of his most outstanding work.  The production, by remaining true to Shakespeare’s now politically incorrect text, offered a stark reflection of racial relationships which lies at the heart of this story of love and loss.

© 2019 by The Green-Eyed Blogger

photo credit: Broadway World