YOU don’t find Shakespearean productions more low-con cept than the Theatre for a New Audience’s “Othello.” Performed on a bare stage with simple props and no stars, this solid revival conveys the melodramatic power of the work, especially in the gripping final section.
Telling the story of the fatal jealousy of the noble Moorish general that’s fueled by his trusted but duplicitous ensign Iago, the play is one of Shakespeare’s most accessible – a quality only enhanced in this straightforward rendition.
Director Arin Arbus’ staging is without frills or flourishes, but she elicits the kind of consistently fine ensemble work all too rare in Shakespearean productions this side of the Atlantic.
One of the pleasures this one provides is the opportunity to see Ned Eisenberg – the veteran stage, television and film actor whose face you’ll recognize, if not his name – as Iago, one of the Bard’s juiciest leading roles.
And Eisenberg delivers, infusing his portrayal with an entertaining self-satisfied malevolence. His Iago is decidedly small and unassuming, making the character’s ability to wreak so much havoc all the more ironic.
John Douglas Thompson has tremendous physical presence as Othello, and his mellifluous reading of the poetic text is beautiful to hear. He’s able to convey a deep love and tenderness for his Desdemona while making us keenly aware of the violence simmering below the surface.
Juliet Rylance’s Desdemona – clearly in passionate physical thrall to her husband – is just as compelling. (Her expertise shouldn’t surprise those who know her father is Mark Rylance, former artistic director of London’s Globe Theatre.)
Although there’s nary a weak link among the supporting players, Kate Forbes’ thoughtful Bianca and Lucas Hall’s strong-willed Cassio make particularly strong impressions.
On a consumer note: All tickets cost $35, an uncommon bargain, especially for an off-Broadway show as good as this one.
OTHELLO
The Duke on 42nd Street, 229 W. 42nd St.; 646-223-3010. Through March 7.