Othello At The Pop-Up Globe

The week before last, we went to The Shakespeare Gardens at Ellerslie Racecourse to see Othello at the Pop-Up Globe and we weren't disappointed! 

Othello is one of Shakespeare's great tragedies and is described by the Pop-Up Globe as,

"Othello is one of Shakespeares greatest psychological thrillers. In a theatre of war, a great general is brought down by the power of his own love and the prejudice of others.

Othello forces us to confront a timeless fear: does the Devil move among us? Racism, jealousy, and envy conspire in Shakepeare's dark tragedy, in this full production inspired by the Jacobean period performed by a specially-formed international ensemble in spectacular bespoke costumes". 

Inside the Pop-Up Globe! It was such a well done set-up and I would imagine that you would have a good view of the stage no matter where you're seated. You can also get Groundling tickets to stand on the floor in front of the stage, which would give you an amazing close-up view if you're happy to stand. Do bring something warm to wear if you go because it does have a half open top and does get a little bit cold!

"Pop-Up Globe recreates as accurately as possible the actual performance conditions of the second Globe theatre: live music and dance, ferocious fight sequences and direct address. Every show ends with a rousing jig. The house lights remain on durring the evening performances, meaning the actors and audience share the same space and experience - the audience is a vital part of the show". 

The quality of the acting was amazing and the performance was flawless. Combined with the well-executed storyline, amazing set and bloody special effects, I was hooked for the whole two and a half hours!

I was slightly concerned that I would have trouble following the storyline (I remember trying to decipher Macbeth in high school!), but it was easy enough to understand and the acting is so well done that you can pick up whats happening through what they are doing anyway. 

So, would I recommend going? Absolutely! As well as Othello you can also see performances of As You Like It, Much Ado About Nothing and Henry V. Check out the Pop-Up Globes website  here, for more information.