Free Othello on the Boston Common

Othello, is one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies- a story of love , jealousy, deceit and murder against the backdrop of war . Free Shakespeare on the Boston Common is presented annually by the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company and is a beloved Boston summer tradition. This year’s show is an exceptionally clear and well-acted production which has some real star power- Seth Gilliam from HBO’s “The Wire” plays the title role and James Waterston of “Six Feet Under”  plays the treacherous villain Iago.   

Gilliam plays Othello, the “noble Moor” believably bigger than life. When Gilliam’s Othello turns on Desdemona with all consuming rage it is positively frightening. Marianna Bassham is totally convincingly as the lovely and loyal Desdemona . It is however, Iago who drives this story and Waterson plays him intelligently crafty-  and witty too.The costumes evoke the 1940′s and the stark, two-level set works well for an outdoor stage that must be seen by thousands.

For Shakespeare newcomers, this Othello is a treat. And to enjoy Shakespere on a summer evening under the stars in Boston- really nothing is  better.

July 28-August 15, Tuesday-Saturday 8 PM, Sunday 7 PM, performances are free.

Shakespeare on the Common, Boston Common, Parkman Bandstand (Map), July 28-August 15

Image Credit: Commonwealth Shakespeare