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Essay On J. H. Picard Othello

Decent Essays

What is the cruelest way to punish a man: to kill him, or to rob him of everything he loves? To imprison him, or strip him of all sense, morals and honor? J.H. Picard’s production of Othello explored these questions and more in a tale of love, deception, and hatred.

Written by the king of theater himself, William Shakespeare, Othello unfolds in an Italy overrun by misogyny and racism. When the Moorish general Othello denies his aide, Iago, a promotion and marries a girl who has blatantly betrayed her father, Iago becomes determined to seek his revenge. How so? By manipulation and a bag full of the seeds of doubt, just waiting to be sown.

In a unique blend of modern and classical styles, J.H. Picard brought a level of energy to the stage that no ordinary group of Shakespearean actors could. Although some lines were missed by the audience due to rushed dialogue, the cast used clever gestures and voices to vocalize …show more content…

Each word effortlessly rolled off his tongue in excellent Shakespearean diction, giving the impression of a strong, scheming character. Alongside him was Jonah Lechot as the play’s namesake, Othello. He was expressive and bold in his performance, making his presence known from the moment he stepped on stage.

Although the play focused primarily on male characters, some of the most notable performances emerged from the female roles. The wives of Othello and Iago, Desdemona and Emilia respectively, were confident and charming in their roles. In song, in speech, and even in death, their interactions were continually heartwarming and heartbreaking.

While the leads enchanted the audience at the front of the stage, the ensemble of young women, consisting of Maddison Kingham, Daisy Brazil and Neressa Wimberly, brought humor and sass to the show, never once dropping character. They undoubtedly became a refreshing relief from the melancholic mood of the

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