What a weekend; three plays in as many days. I wrapped up my theatrical trilogy on Sunday with Genesius Guild’s Othello by William Shakespeare directed by Teresa Moore. This is Moore ’s directorial debut at Guild and she delivers a strong production of The Bard’s tale of revenge and jealousy tainted by a liberal amount of racism.
For those who may be unfamiliar with this script, it recounts the story of the Moorish general, Othello, who leads the army of Venice against a Turkish skirmish. He falls in love with and marries the fair – and by fair, I mean the character is almost always cast as a blonde – Desdemona to the dismay of her father and another suitor, Roderigo. Bear in mind that in Shakespeare’s day the descriptor of “Moorish” translates to a black African and blatant racism was no stranger to the Elizabethans. But the real problem lays with Iago whose overriding anger and jealousy when Othello promotes Cassio instead of Iago to be his second in command. This spurs a deep hatred of the Moor and Iago sets out on a collision course manipulating everyone around him to bring down Othello. Four people eventually die as a result of his machinations.
Heading up the cast in the titular role of Othello in his first Shakespearean role is Anthony Mitchell who delivers a solid performance. This being his first Shakespearean role, as he becomes more familiar with iambic pentameter he will only get better and better. In her third role this summer at the Guild is the talented Olivia Akers as the innocent yet ill-fated Desdemona. Akers is impressive and I look forward to seeing her in the future.
By far the most demanding role is that of Iago and the young Charles Budan holds up his pillar of the show with the strength of Atlas. I’ve now seen this young man in three different productions and his range is dramatic. Another young talent I predict will go far if he chooses to pursue more theatre.
Another standout in the supporting role of Cassio is Cole McFarren. His portrayal is smooth and natural. Big compliments also go out to costume designer Shannon Ryan for the lush dressing of the cast.
So if you’re looking for a pleasant night under the stars watching a provocative story FOR FREE, Genesius Guild has just what you’re looking for.
Othello continues Saturday and Sunday, July 15 and 16 at 7:00 pm in beautiful Lincoln Park in Rock Island – just a stone’s throw from Alleman High School and Augustana College . This show runs just a bit over two and a half hours so be sure to plan accordingly.
I’m Chris Hicks…break a leg.