Supported by BASA and the University of Johannesburg, the production is geared mainly for secondary school learners studying Shakespeare’s stage tragedy as a set work. The production is directed by the multi-award-winning Durban actor, Clare Mortimer, herself a writer of note and an experienced English teacher.

Schools performances are at 09:00 and 12:00 Mondays to Fridays, with a public performance on Thursday, 5 May at 19:00. Tickets cost R45 (R70 for adults attending the public performance). Bookings are through the show’s producer, Margie Coppen, on 083 251 9412.

Othello stars Farai Gwaze in the title role, playing opposite Josette Eales as Desdemona and Clinton Small as Iago, with Janne Ramos-Violantes taking the role of Iago’s wife, Emilia. Also featured in the exceptionally strong cast are Loyiso MacDonald, Michael Gritten, Darren King, Marc Kay, Clare Mortimer, Adam Dore, Janna Ramos Violantes, Bryan Hiles and Rowan Bartlett.

This production has garnered much critical acclaim during its previous seasons, when it played to packed houses. With its themes of racism, love, jealousy and betrayal, Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy remains powerfully relevant to present-day audiences.