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Shakespearean tragedy "Othello" staged in Shaw Theatre

Nov. 6, 2004

KALAMAZOO--University Theatre presents the Shakespearean tragedy "Othello" for seven performances, Nov. 11-20, in Laura V. Shaw Theatre.

Western Michigan University's production is relatively traditional version of "Othello," set in the year 1810 in Venice and Cyprus. The title character, an African Muslim turned Christian, commands the military forces responsible for the safety of Venice and its trading partners. His status as an outsider both complicates his marriage and fuels the dislike of his villainous lieutenant, Iago. When he passes over Iago for promotion, the dislike turns deadly. A staple of English-language Theatre for more than four centuries, "Othello" showcases the power and tenderness of Shakespeare's dramatic writing.

"Othello" is directed by James Daniels, professor of theatre. The cast includes seniors Katie Duthler, Larry Herron, Robert Lombardo and Joe Shoup; juniors Joshua Davis, Joseph Johnson, Beth Lach, Melissa Pryor and Prescott Seymour; sophomores Michael Kremer, Takaaki Otawa and Brock Yordy; and freshmen Samuel Gray, Ryan Guess and Jonathan Hymen. Designers include students Andrew Campbell, sound; Carl Hamilton, scenery; Rebecca Smith, lighting; and faculty member Gwen Nagle, costumes.

Performances are at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 11-13 and 18-20, and a single matinee at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 14. An opening night reception sponsored by Millennium Restaurant Group takes place after the Nov. 11 performance, and a post-show discussion with the director and cast is scheduled for Nov. 18.

Tickets for "Othello" may be purchased by visiting or calling the University Theatre Ticket Office weekdays between noon and 5 p.m. The phone number is (269) 387-6222. Tickets are $16. Senior citizens and WMU employees and students receive discounts on tickets to University Theatre productions.

The 2004-05 University Theatre season is made possible through a partnership with Millennium Restaurant Group.

Media contact: Patrick Donnelly, 269 387-6222, patrick.donnelly@wmich.edu

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