Shakespeare’s Globe announces cast for Othello

Shakespeare’s Globe has officially unveiled the cast for its upcoming production of Othello.

Directed by the accomplished Ola Ince (Romeo and Juliet at the Globe), the production runs 19 January – 13 April 2024 at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.

Making up the cast are Charlotte Bate (Emilia), Ralph Davis (Iago), Poppy Gilbert (Desdemona), Oli Higginson (Cassio), David Hounslow (Commissioner / Montano), Maggie Musgrove (Bianca), Ken Nwosu (Othello), Ira Mandela Siobhan (Subconscious Othello), Sam Swann (Roderigo) and Ché Walker (Brabantio / Lodovico).

Director Ola Ince said: “It’s so exciting to bring Othello into the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse – illuminating this story of race, misogyny, and patriarchy and one of Shakespeare’s most famous characters in a new way.

“Our production will feature two Othellos, allowing us to focus on Othello’s inner turmoil through a physical portrayal of Othello’s subconscious and a traditional Othello, bringing Shakespeare’s powerful words to life; giving audiences an opportunity to get to know this iconic character in a brand-new light. Our talented company are electrifying, brave, and forensic about how this play speaks to today, and I am so delighted to be working with them.”

The play’s casting was overseen by Becky Paris, Head of Casting at Shakespeare’s Globe. The creative team includes Prime Issac as Assistant Director/Writer, Anna Watson as Candlelight Designer, Renell Shaw as Composer, Olivia Ward as Costume Supervisor, Amelia Jane Hankin as Designer, Yarit Dor as Fight and Intimacy Director, Annie-Lunnette Deakin-Foster as Movement Director, and Annamette Verspeak as Voice and Text. The musicians for the production include Meera Raja on Cello/Piano, Charlie Laffer on Guitar, Rio Kai as Musical Director/Double Bass, and Gaspar Sena on Percussion.

For more information, visit shakespearesglobe.com