Review Round Up: Othello, Theatre Royal Haymarket
We compile reviews for Tom Morris’s production of Othello, 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 in the lead up to his murderously wounded rage. He is so captivating to the other characters that they are frozen as he tells of 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
The production offers a stately West End Shakespeare, well-spoken and measured, directed by Tom Morris and designed by Ti Green in a style that feels detached from the modern world. It could have been staged in the 1950s, 1970s, or 1990s; even PJ Harvey’s unusual and sporadic score feels quaint.
WhatsOnStage
“But the three central performances, all in their different ways, fail to gel. Harewood’s Othello is impressive in stillness; the moments when he is gazing at Desdemona full of wonder hint beautifully at the depth of feeling he contains.”
Summary: The production showcases powerful performances, especially from Harewood, but its traditional style and uneven cast dynamics draw mixed critical responses.