Shakespeare Demystified: OTHELLO

PJPAC and KL Shakespeare Players jointly bring you Othello, one of the four greatest tragedies by Shakespeare.

Presented in the Shakespeare Demystified format, this production condenses the normally three-hour long play into 100 minutes, with a focus on the play's iconic scenes in original Shakespearean English. Narration is delivered in contemporary English, punctuating the performance in order to provide context, character analyses and clarifications of unfamiliar “Shakespearean expressions”. 

Theatre-goers who are unfamiliar with Shakespeare will know the play’s main plot points, major themes and relevant issues by the end of the performance. 

Our shows are very popular with educators and students at all levels of study as these productions debunk the myth that Shakespeare is inaccessible, while avoiding diluting the material. Even working adults and parents have uttered: “The shows have rekindled our interest in Shakespeare!” 

SYNOPSIS

In Venice, Othello, a well-respected general of African origin secretly marries Desdemona, a beautiful and virtuous Venetian. Her father Brabantio is outraged and summons Othello before the Duke. Assured that Desdemona has married Othello of her own free will and volition, the Duke of Venice sanctions the marriage.

The newlyweds then go to Cyprus, followed by Othello’s long-time flag bearer Iago, who harbours a deep hatred toward the general. Iago skillfully plots Othello’s downfall by tricking him into believing that Desdemona is having an illicit affair with lieutenant Cassio. From initial disbelief, Othello’s mind is slowly poisoned until it reaches the point of no return.

Cast & Creative Info

Produced by: KL Shakespeare Players & PJPAC

Directed by: Lim Kien Lee

Featuring: Lim Soon Heng, Zul Zamir, Nurul Sofia, Sandee Chew, Lok Shi Hoong, Fred Chan & Tengku Azizan