At Fluellen Theatre |
| Fluellen Theatre Company- Othello , Swansea Grand Theatre , November 14, 2003 |
| Swansea-based Fluellen Theatre Company has already proved that there is a massive audience for classic drama in and around South Wales, and this powerful study of passion, jealousy and rage has to rank as one of their most effective productions to date. Director Peter Richards has adopted a stark, no-frills approach which is perfectly suited not only to the subject matter but also to the company's trademark in-the-round style: the players perform in close proximity to the audience and it is almost impossible for those watching to feel uninvolved as the story unfolds, particularly since the themes explored here are as relevant today as they were when Shakespeare first penned this remarkable tale. Nigerian-born actor Sule Rimi gives a tremendous performance in the title role, commanding the attention of the audience with his smouldering stage presence and extraordinary voice, whileNaomi Martell shines as the vulnerable and ill-fated Desdemona. Fluellen favourites George Andrews and Alexandra Trowbridge Matthews fare well in their roles as Iago and Emilia, with supporting players Gavin Dando, Sian Denty, David Dooley, Simon Howells and David Norton bringing their respective characters to life with energy and conviction. This is a longer and wordier production than one has come to expect from Fluellen, but it is a rewarding experience and one which challenges both the performers and the audience. This all proves that it is possible to engage the attention and to reflect the darker side of human nature without resorting to elaborate effects or gimmickry. And while the sense of period is deliberately unspecified (army trenchcoats, iridescent gowns, imitation leather trousers and dinner jackets are among the outfits worn by the cast), the result produced is very effective indeed. The robust nature of the production is also reinforced during scenes in which characters engage in physical conflict - these sequences pack a real wallop, and contribute greatly to the impact of the play. |
Reviewed by: WWester |
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