Shakespeare's Nigga

John Jarvis as Shakespeare and Andre Sills as Othello. Photo by Keith Barker.

What happens when an author comes face to face with his creations? Toronto playwright Joseph Jomo Pierre explores the possibilities in his exciting play Shakespeare's Nigga, now on stage at Theatre Passe Muraille.

Presented by Obsidian Theatre in association with Theatre Passe Muraille and 3D Atomic, the story gives voice to two iconic characters in Shakespeare’s work: Othello (played by the powerful Andre Sills) and Titus Andronicus’ Aaron (the multi-talented Joseph Jomo Pierre). In this fantasized version of events, Shakespeare (John Jarvis) is closely connected to both men, taking Othello under his wing as his pupil and ordering him to carry out his dirty work, including subjecting Aaron to brutal whippings.

The play opens with the agonizing sound of Aaron’s screams as Othello performs his master’s bidding. The educated “negro” looks down on Aaron, the savage “nigga,” and resents him for attracting the desire of Shakespeare’s daughter Judith (Sascha Cole). Despite his best efforts, Othello can’t get the strong-willed lady to notice him, just like he can’t control the temperament of his stubborn horse (also played beautifully by Cole). But as Aaron reminds the older servant Tyrus (David Collins), they are all Shakespeare’s slaves. Othello has simply been deceived into thinking he is someone that he is not.

In the end, the relationship between Aaron and Judith creates conflict in the house, as past secrets are exposed and injustices avenged. Shakespeare is forced to see his characters for who they truly are, and what he sees in them is ultimately a surprising reflection of himself.

Featuring creative set and lighting design by Trevor Schwellnus, clever costumes by Melanie McNeill, striking sound by Shayne Levine, original music by Andrew Craig, and compelling performances by a first-rate cast under director Philip Akin, this unique production will forever change the way you view Shakespeare’s characters. By realizing the dreams and ambitions of Othello and Aaron, Pierre’s work reimagines these men as more than just symbols of jealousy, temptation and darkness, using Shakespeare’s own words, no less. Don’t miss it!

Shakespeare's Nigga runs until February 23 at the Theatre Passe Muraille Mainspace. Visit passemuraille.on.ca for more information and to buy tickets.

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