David Harewood to Play Othello in New West End Production
A highly anticipated new production of Othello will be coming to the West End later this year, featuring a star-studded cast led by David Harewood in the title role.
Tom Morris Directs Groundbreaking Production
The new production will be directed by Tom Morris, known for his previous successes in the theatre, including War Horse. This version of Shakespeare’s Othello will feature Toby Jones as Iago and Caitlin FitzGerald as Desdemona, with PJ Harvey composing the music, making this a unique take on the classic tragedy.
Morris is spearheading a series of contemporary Shakespeare productions for Chris Harper Productions, aiming to bring fresh and modern interpretations of the Bard's works to the West End over the next five years.
Artwork provided by National Theatre.
David Harewood Returns to Iconic Role
David Harewood is returning to the role of Othello after being the first Black actor to play the part at the National Theatre in 1997. Reflecting on his return, Harewood expressed his excitement, stating: “It’s very exciting to be tackling this monumental part once again. Last time around, I was very conscious of breaking through a particular glass ceiling, and I probably felt the weight of that. No concerns this time, and I’m looking forward to starting afresh.”
Toby Jones and Caitlin FitzGerald Complete the Cast
Toby Jones, an acclaimed actor known for his roles in The Hunger Games and Detectorists, will take on the role of Iago. He shared his anticipation, commenting: "I’m preparing as best I can to immerse myself in this dark, sad, funny, mysterious world."
Caitlin FitzGerald, known for her roles in Succession and Masters of Sex, will play Desdemona. She expressed her enthusiasm for the role, saying she is thrilled to explore a Desdemona who is “full of agency, fearless in both mind and heart, and a true equal to Othello.”
Creative Team Behind the Production
The production boasts an impressive creative team, including Ti Green as designer, Jon Nicholls for sound design and additional music, Richard Howell as lighting designer, and Anna Cooper as casting director. The team also includes Dominic Skinner for make-up design, Suzanne Scotcher for hair and wigs design, Katie Henry as associate director, and Laila Diallo as movement director.
Performance Dates and Venue
This new production of Othello will play at Theatre Royal Haymarket in London from 23 October 2025 to 17 January 2026, with a press night scheduled for 4 November 2025.
Get ready for a thrilling new interpretation of this timeless classic, exploring themes of jealousy, manipulation, and power with a dynamic cast and visionary creative team. Tickets will be available soon.
