WILTON'S MUSIC HALL

A timely new interpretation of the Bard's racial tragedy

In a world where anti-Muslim prejudice is on the rise, and where "alternative" facts have been espoused from the corridors of power, Richard Twyman's blisteringly new adaptation of Othello is a timely addition to the Shakespeare canon. First premiering at the Tobacco Factory Theatres in Bristol, it transfers to London's East End this spring. Focusing on the rise of Islamophobia and eagerness to believe unverified news, this is a relevant new treatment that we cannot afford to ignore.

Set in modern times, Venice is a Western superpower with colonial history, who has employed a Muslim general to lead their forces against Turkey's attempted invasion. Aware of the suspicion directed towards Islam, Othello is forced to play down his religion and assimilate in order to succeed. However he is undone by his right-hand man, who is bitter about Othello's life and military glory, and sets out to destroy the very man who ensured Venice's victory by raising hackles in race, religion and using fear.