LA PLATA, Md. — The Port Tobacco Players will present William Shakespeare’s “Othello” over three weekends this spring, running from May 2 through May 18 at the company’s downtown La Plata theater.
Performances are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for seniors over 60, youth through high school, and military members with valid ID. Tickets are available at ptplayers.com.
Directed by Rachel Wallace and produced by Debbie Gilley, this 90-minute adaptation of “Othello” explores themes of jealousy, betrayal, racism and manipulation. The production includes content warnings for violence, domestic violence and suicide.
“Shortly after a military promotion, Othello gets caught up in a whirlwind romance and a secret wedding to the lovely Desdemona. Due to Othello’s good fortune a plot of destruction is launched by an envious friend, Iago. Driven by jealousy of Othello’s multiple successes, Iago sets out to destroy everything that Othello holds dear. Through an intricate web of lies spun by his enemy, Othello succumbs to self- doubt that ultimately spirals out of control, turning him into a murderous unrecognizable shell of himself. This tale of deceit, jealousy, racism and betrayal is a visceral reminder of the darker side of the human condition. This 90- minute interpretation of one of Shakespeare’s most twisted tragedies, is a commentary on how we see ourselves and how that affects the way we see others.”
The performance on Sunday, May 11 will include a post-show talkback with the cast and crew.
Grace Hanson serves as assistant director for the production.
The Port Tobacco Players present six main stage shows each season and operate two touring companies, Encore and Encore Kids. The group remains committed to delivering high-quality theater to audiences throughout Southern Maryland.
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