Review: OTHELLO, National Youth Theatre (Bolsover Castle)
This week, I finally managed to go and see some live theatre for the first time since the pandemic started. The piece in question was NYT’s production of Othello in the beautiful setting of Bolsover Castle, and what a way to be reintroduced to live theatre! Directed by Miranda Cromwell and starring the NYT REP company, this production has been co-produced by Royal & Derngate as part of their Made in Northampton season, in partnership with English Heritage.
This is a fast-paced production with Shakespeare’s usual 3 hour running time cut down to just 95 minutes, and transported from its original setting to a nightclub in the 90s. Still using Shakespeare’s original text and language, albeit spiced up at times, this production does an excellent job of keeping the story and depth of the characters intact. Shakespeare’s plays often work well when transported through time into more modern or recent settings, and the NYT’s Othello, abridged by Dzifa Benson, is no exception.
The NYT cast in this production do an excellent job, with Francesca Amewudah-Rivers particularly brilliant in the title role. There is a danger that Othello’s descent into jealousy and madness could end up feeling very rushed within the shortened running time, but Amewudah-Rivers’ handling of the difficult character felt pitched perfectly. The gender switch of the role is pleasing and feels particularly impactful at the close of the play, leaving us with our three female leads alone onstage. Connor Crawford’s manipulative Iago is also played very well, with just the right amount of anger, jealousy, and charm to balance the unravelling mind of Othello.
A special mention should go to Rebecca Hesketh-Smith who stepped in to play the role of Desdemona last minute, due to cast illness. Smith is a graduate of NYT REP, and despite what must have been quite a stressful rush to get ready for the performance, her portrayal and chemistry with the rest of the cast is excellent.
This production of Othello introduces us to a new character not in Shakespeare’s original, the Chorus. This is an enjoyable addition to the play as it increases Othello’s sense of paranoia, jealousy, and isolation as the Chorus seem to take an active role in spreading the rumours Iago was feeding Othello. Working within a small space, they help to create the feel of a busy and crowded nightclub, dancing throughout the piece. I enjoyed the choreography by DK Fashola immensely, although the volume of the music did occasionally make it difficult to make out what our lead actors were saying at the front of the stage.
I love the way the stage is set up, with the cast being able to move the set themselves to reflect the various locations of the play. The simplicity of the staging means that we are really able to focus on the performances.
The NYT’s version of Othello is well worth a watch. You can also catch this same cast in action in Animal Farm which is touring now.
****’ Four and a half stars
Reviewed by: Amy Louise
