The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice

No longer available.

“svelte, intimate and implosive … truly, theatrically compelling … extremely thoughtful and sincere”  —Chicago Sun-Times

Othello—the noble general, husband, scholar, and traveler—fights for his life, right to love, and position in society. When Othello’s closest confidant objects to his actions, their brotherhood is shattered, provoking a series of tragic events for Othello and everyone around him. Co-directors Charles Newell and Gabrielle Randle-Bent helm this theatrical examination of humanity and tragedy in Shakespeare’s fraught and famous work. Through scenic design that places audiences in the middle of the action, this telling grapples with how complex notions of race, gender, and complicity at the heart of the play’s murderous events speak to a world on the brink of change.

Running time: 100 minutes, presented without intermission

In addition to live performances, a digital version is available to stream through December 5, 2021. Professionally captured with multiple cameras in front of a live audience, this on-demand video version offers an intimate way to experience Shakespeare’s fraught and famous tragedy.

Re-Opening Policy: All visitors to Court Theatre must provide proof of vaccination. By exception, visitors who are unable to be vaccinated for medical reasons or due to a sincerely-held religious belief may provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of the event start time, or proof of a positive COVID-19 test taken 14-90 days before the date of the performance with affirmation that you are not experiencing any symptoms. This accommodation also applies to children under 12 who are currently unable to be vaccinated. University of Chicago students, faculty, other academic appointees, postdoctoral researchers, and staff subject to the University’s vaccine requirements may demonstrate proof of compliance by presenting their UChicago ID at entry. All visitors, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a mask while at Court Theatre.

Learn more about COVID-19 protocols at Court Theatre.

The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice is sponsored by Bayless Family Foundation and Michael Charles Litt

Click here to download The Tragedy of Othello program.

Photo Kelvin Roston, Jr., Amanda Drinkall, Erik Hellman, Karissa Murrell Myers, Sean Fortunato, Cruz Gonzalez-Cadel, and Timothy Edward Kane by Michael Brosilow.