Preview: The Tragedy of Othello

The Tragedy of Othello, directed by Tally Arundell, is showing at Pembroke Chapel from Wednesday 30^th October– Saturday 2^nd November. A story of misplaced trust, deception, love and race. Thematically and linguistically consistent – which will please the Shakespeare enthusiasts – but with a fresh look.

I’m intrigued by director Tally’s period transformation of Othello. Why the 1920s? Tally explains that her experience of comparing Othello with The Great Gatsby at A-level had struck a chord with her. She is fascinated by the mixing of cultures that occurred in both the Renaissance and 1920s. Othello is “timeless for a reason”, Tally says. Reputation and identity are human concerns which will forever occupy both the real world and the fictional.

Image credit: Sophia Orr

For those who crave an escape from academic life, this version of Othello can provide that too! The 1920s costumes make for an aesthetically striking play. Sitting in on the dress run, I’m transported to a world of flapper dresses and elegant accessories decked with fringes, sequins and pearls. This plays into the theme of female promiscuity while also providing a real eye-catching quality. Pembroke Chapel is a beautiful and atmospheric venue. “How does the space affect the performance of Othello?”, I ask Tally. She tells me it brings a raw intensity to the play; she feels the space allows her actors’ performances to reach their full potential, while also making the audience feel more present in the story. Tally also mentions that moments of the play will reproduce an Evensong atmosphere and that the merging of private-public stage space is reminiscent of the Globe.

Image credit: Sophia Orr

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Tally is enjoying her involvement in Cambridge theatre life. She describes herself as an actor first and foremost, but through Othello she has discovered a real love for directing. She tells me about the connection she has formed with the cast and how Othello has been a collaborative project. Tally is calm but excited for the show to open. She talks about – and her demeanor demonstrates – the faith she has in her actors. It’s been a labour of love: “I direct things I’m personally connected to, and that’s why it’s been such a gratifying experience”.

I’m excited to see Lauren Akinluyi as Othello after her standout performance in last years ADC mainshow Antony and Cleopatra. Daphne Stavride promises to bring an impactful and feisty performance in keeping with Emilia’s character and in the dress rehearsal Jaeyen Lian proved a truly menacing Iago. His ability to switch personas brilliantly captured Iago’s villainous nature. I feel as assured as Tally that this wonderful team will do this play justice.

Image credit: Sophia Orr

I ask Tally about her favourite scenes in Othello. She answers, the first scene of Act four because “it’s the moment we realise there is no going back”. On a lighter note, she also mentions Act 2 Scene 3, the drinking scene. “It feels like I’m watching people in the smoking area of revs,” Tally smiles. If your objection to attending opening night is that you already have plans to go to Rumboogie, there’s no excuse (The show opens at 5pm on Wednesday so you can do both)!

Buy your tickets here to see the show for yourself! On in the Pembroke College Chapel from Wednesday 30th October – Saturday 2nd November.

Feature image credits: Sophia Orr     

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• Preview: Oedipus Tyrannus
• Preview: It’s News To Him
• Review: Fences