Theatre review: Lenny Henry in Othello

Lenny Henry as Othello (c) Tristan Kenton

A Black leader in a white dominated world; a charismatic, powerful commander resisting prejudice and stereotypes to achieve greatness.  Northern Broadsides’ timely depiction of William Shakespeare’s classic drama of tragedy and tension and jealousy recalls the ugly racism that has been part of European society and culture for several centuries; but it could easily be a parable of our times.
Since taking its show on the road in February this ensemble of mostly northern actors bring their own style to the role but never lose sight of the essence of the play – envy and resentment – and the manipulation of these volatile emotions to tragic effect.

Of all the dramatic or classic roles to take Lenny Henry chose one already illuminated by the likes of Laurence Olivier (in the days of ‘blacking up)], Paul Robeson and Orson Welles. For sure it’s difficult to perceive the comic as other than a big personality – his face and demeanour is one for comedy not drama – but in the title role he is commanding and sincere, towering above his co-stars in size and performance. Although he can never bring the reputation, magnetism and history of his illustrious predecessors to the role his portrayal of Othello is neither cowardly, nor overawed.  In the space of this near three-hour performance the comic moved from being carefree to raging anger, jealousy and psychosis.
The Moor’s chemistry with Desdemona (Jessica Harris) is a little unrealistic – she seems far too young and delicate for this giant of a man, and some plot twists and turns do seem dated. Despite these weaknesses Lenny Henry  knows his way around a stage, which he commands impressively by sheer strength of personality.

Henry is possibly overshadowed by a memorable Conrad Nelson in a menacing performance as the malevolent Iago – snide and malicious, plotting and conniving.  From the start, Nelson’s envious lieutenant is manipulative and evil – all snide remarks and red-faced anger – swaggering, sneering, calculating and spiteful – his asides to the audience and soliloquies delivered with scowling aggression and hatred.
With suspense and tension maintained right to the very end this production brings Shakespeare’s very relevant classic to a modern audience.

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Othello
William Shakespeare
Trafalgar Studios, Whitehall, London, SW1A 2DY
until 12 December 2009
Monday – Saturday at 7.30pm
Box Office: 0870 060 6632
www.othellowestend.com