Andrew Uhlenhopp directs a modernized version of Shakespeare’s tragedy of jealousy

Firehouse Theater Company’s production of Othello 2024 is another bold outing by the company performing in Denver’s John Hand Theater. William Shakespeare’s mega-tragedy, Othello has been ingeniously adapted (and trimmed!) by Greg Sherman and Gregory Wolfe. Under the remarkable direction of Andrew Uhlenhopp, this prduction lasts a mere two hours while capturing every bit of the intricate web of love, jealousy, and betrayal of the original.

Set in 2024, this production is not just a retelling but a reimagining, filled with nuances only a present-day audience would recognize and appreciate.

Shakespeare’s story is set in Venice and revolves around the noble Moorish general Othello (TJ Jackson), who is manipulated by his envious ensign, Iago (Kelly Uhlenhopp), for being passed over for a promotion. Iago’s anger and deceit lead Othello to believe that his wife, Desdemona (Emily Ebertz), has been unfaithful to him with his lieutenant Cassio (Jeremy Umansky). It was he who received the promotion for which Iago was in line.

Othello, consumed by jealousy and eventually going mad, kills Desdemona in a violent rage. The truth is then revealed, but it is too late. Desdemona was not unfaithful but instead set up by Iago to appear as such. Othello is stricken with grief and guilt and kills himself. We are left with a heap of dead bodies on stage as the curtain falls.

Now for the modern-day part: The audience is introduced to much of the action through televised newscasts projected on a large screen at the rear of the stage. In addition to the newscasts, the projections are used extensively to establish the locale, capture the scene’s essence, and advance the storyline. Rick Reid, projection designer, and Tom Quinn, projection engineer, are responsible for the flawless use of this technology. Beyond the novelty, the tech contributes enormously to the staging of Othello 2024 and keeps the audience engaged throughout.

No 2024 story is complete without everyone carrying a cellphone. Iago uses it extensively to make Othello believe his wife has been unfaithful by capturing compromising photographs of Desdemona and Cassio. There’s even a Zoom video call between Desdemona and her father, Brabantio (Bruce Laks).

Emily Ebertz as Desdemona and TJ Jackson as Othello in ‘Othello 2024’ | Photo: RDGPhotography

Nicely cast

The entire cast of Othello 2024 is beyond reproach, starting with Jackson as the multi-faceted Othello. Multi-award-winning actor Jackson brings to the role a humanized individual caught up in the falsely presented betrayal of his wife. His growing madness as time progresses makes his character even more tragic. Jackson is exceptional as the Moor and powerfully centers the entire production.

In a unique gender-bending casting choice, Kelly Uhlenhopp portrays one of theatre’s greatest villains, Iago. Her portrayal of the highly calculating Iago is simply excellent, filled with just the right amount of destructive determination and wicked objectives. As always, Uhlenhopp gives a first-rate performance, never missing the opportunity to explore a character’s subtext superbly.

Kelly Uhlenhopp as Iago plants seeds of doubt in the ear of Othello, played by TJ Jackson. | Photo: RDGPhotography

Both Umansky as Cassio and Ebertz as Desdemona give worthy performances. They capture the cadence of Shakespeare’s language and make it accessible to a present-day audience — not always an easy task. In Emilia’s role, Kate Poling gives a winning performance as both Iago’s wife and Desdemona’s attendant.

Director Andrew Uhlenhopp has helmed a stimulating production of this alt-Shakespeare work. His vision of a contemporary Othello is recognizable and spot-on, leaving the audience as transfixed as it was in the original centuries ago. Bravo to Mr. Uhlenhopp.

Othello 2024 is a rare Shakespearean entry from Firehouse Theater Company, and the company doesn’t disappoint. The production is both fascinating and gripping, with a level of familiarity that modern audiences will embrace.