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OTHELLO Previews

Feb 26, 2025 — 4:24:09 AM

Dan6 said: "I would still love to hear from someone who was there about the production and performances, apart from the missed lines."

Longtime member though this may be my first post. I know people are eager for details. I love to read show reports, so here goes! I was at the first preview and can share some impressions:

As mentioned, the production is set in the near future (October of 202Profile for kellysruby | BroadwayWorld Message Board?format=auto&width=600 but could have been set in any time period. There are no cell phones, no overt modern or political references except a carton of Bud Light and contemporary costumes. Minimalist but effective set and lighting. Somewhat odd music choices - a couple of pieces sounded like they were from a Doris Day/Rock Hudson movie.

There were some sound issues and some stumbling over lines by the actors. Denzel Washington did call for his lines several times and seemed very hesitant. We know he is a legendary actor and Shakespeare vet, so I'm sure he'll get it together. But it was unclear if his characterization (seeming to tend more to senility than insanity) was intentional. He repeated words and lines a lot, but I don't know if it was for effect or because he couldn't remember the line. It was uncomfortable at times but still a thrill to see him on stage. When he nails the lines/the character, the crowd really responds.

Jake Gyllenhaal was very good, seemingly in command of the script. I've seen all of his NY stage work and wondered how he'd handle the Bard. No worries there. Some of Iago's scenes with the soldiers and with Rodrigo have a bit of a contemporary feel.

The acting was good from the rest of the cast; Emilia (Kimber Elayne Sprawl) was the standout for me. She gets to righteously rail at Othello and especially Iago. It's a welcome moment of truth and women's power in a play soaked in toxic masculinity. Of course, Emilia pays the price for it.

The classic themes (jealousy, betrayal, racism) are there but I'm not sure this version teaches us or shows us anything new. And maybe it doesn't  have to. But it might benefit from having a stronger modern esthetic, something to set it apart, make it resonate.

I'm eager to see it again, to see if I can relax into the story without the anxiety of watching DW struggle. Not sure how much can or will change at this point, so far into the process but it will be interesting to find out.

Box Seats at Walter Kerr

Nov 3, 2019 — 2:17:43 PM

Trying to find out how many steps it is to the box seats at the Walter Kerr. I've tried googling and calling Ticketmaster but haven't been able to find the information.

Also curious about how much is obstructed for Hadestown from the front row of seats in the boxes.

Thanks for any help!

HAMILTON Principal Cast Replacements

Feb 13, 2019 — 4:06:05 PM

Not sure if this was added later, but ML says this on the IG photo:

>>>On Saturday, 16 February 2019, I will take my final bow as Alexander Hamilton.
I have no idea what’s on the other side of the 16th but, like I did after this photo, I’ll start stepping towards something new.<<<

HAMILTON Principal Cast Replacements

Feb 13, 2019 — 4:06:05 PM

Not sure if this was added later, but ML says this on the IG photo:

>>>On Saturday, 16 February 2019, I will take my final bow as Alexander Hamilton.
I have no idea what’s on the other side of the 16th but, like I did after this photo, I’ll start stepping towards something new.<<<

Laura Benanti to replace Lauren Ambrose in MY FAIR LADY

Feb 11, 2019 — 9:42:08 PM

LesWickedly said: "I’m sure it’s been discussed in this thread but can you return your ticket for a refund if Laura is out? I know she’s not above the title but wonder if exceptions are made. I might make a return trip for her in the Summer but would only be going for her as I wasn’t the hugest fan of the show."

You can get your money back. I bought tickets after noon on Super Bowl Sunday for that afternoon. There was no notice that Benanti wo

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