The Stage presents a reimagined, jazz-infused version of William Shakespeare’s OTHELLO, placed in the 1950’s film-noir and seamy jazz club milieu, providing a unique twist on the original play. The setting invokes echoes of Raymond Chandler and Jack Kerouac, adding a layer of grit and darkness to the already intense drama.

The ensemble cast consists of eight actors, each playing multiple roles. The performance takes place in a Brechtian style cabaret, which creates and intimate and disturbing investigation of Shakespeare’s themes. At the heart of the play lies the tragic love story between Othello, a noble Moorish general, and Desdemona, a Venetian beauty. However, their relationship is complicated by the manipulations of Iago, Othello’s ensign, who deceives him into believing Desdemona is unfaithful.