Classical Othello vs Mordern Othello

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Sanique Gordon

In my essay I will be comparing Elizabethan classical Othello with the modern Frantic Assembly Othello. I will be comparing the techniques used within both performances. I will also be comparing the differences and the similarities between the two. I will be describing the costumes and technology that were used and the differences between theatres then and now. Things that went on in theatres then, what were not allowed and how theatres have changed in the twenty first century.

Othello stands today as a masterpiece among films presentation of theatre productions. Shakespeare tragic story of how a great man’s vanity is manipulated by jealous aide to bring about his downfall. One of Shakespeare’s most powerful dramas is presented here.

In Frantic Assembly Othello it was performed in a physical theatre style which body language was used to show their point of view and the music was very current and new. The set had the illusion of a local pub; it’s consisted of a fruit machine, a dart board, a pool table and chairs that were frequently used to balance on because in physical theatre props are needed for this use and a ladies toilet door that was turn around to reveal the inside where private and intimate girl talk took place. There was an epic effect where the set opens right in front of the spectators to show a back wall that was used for the street fight scene. The set was really realistic and quit modern

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The costumes the performers were wearing are contemporary and very casual; they wore tract suits, trainers and jeans, although they did dress Othello in a smart shirt and jeans to show his statues. There were not much costume changes except twice between the friends and once when they had the street fight.

This particular piece of theatrical performance was held at the Lyric Theatre which welcomes people from all ages and race, students had attended, middle age, elders, mixed race and young adults. The spectators were seated from the four wall view. They used electrical lighting and it changes to ...

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