Review Round Up: Othello, Theatre Royal Haymarket
We compile reviews of Tom Morris's production featuring David Harewood, Toby Jones, and Caitlin FitzGerald.
The Stage
“David Harewood and Toby Jones star in Tom Morris’ overwrought staging.”
The Guardian
“Harewood’s Othello holds your attention with his physical presence and imperial quality, the sniffs, smirks and tics leading up to his murderously wounded rage. He captivates the other characters so completely that they freeze as he recounts meeting Desdemona at the start. He woos them, and us.”
The Independent
“David Harewood reprises the titular role in a starry production that grants more power to the play’s women, but ultimately dulls its edge.”
The Standard
“This is stately West End Shakespeare, well-spoken and measured, directed by Tom Morris and designed by Ti Green in a way that feels oddly detached from the modern world. The production could have been staged in the 1990s, 1970s, or even the 1950s. Even PJ Harvey’s unusual and intermittent score feels quaint.”
WhatsOnStage
“The three central performances, each unique, fail to fully connect. Harewood’s Othello impresses in stillness; his moments gazing at Desdemona with wonder hint beautifully at his inner depth of feeling.”
Author’s summary: The production offers striking performances, especially by Harewood, but the direction and style feel dated, with mixed coherence among the leads.