SHAKESPEARE

Synopsis

BBC Radio 3 arts series. This edition contains a 13 minute discussion between presenter Gabriel Gbadamosi, writer and critic Bonnie Greer, and Felix Cross, Artistic Director of the black theatre company NITRO, on the issue of ‘in what sense is Othello black?' The debate comes ahead of the Radio 3 broadcast of OTHELLO with Chiwetel Ejiofor in the title role, an interpretation which has been criticised for a vocal delivery which some claim is based on Olivier’s performance in the National Theatre’s 1964 production. Ben Thomas, who has played the role for the Talawa Theatre Company, wants to play Othello as a model of black masculinity - a courageous, strong, moral man but feels a weakness in the genetic make-up. He believes that all black men in a white society are ‘other’ and Othello’s tragedy is a lack of understanding about his surroundings. Cross thinks Shakespeare is the pillar of middle-class English society and to play a man defined as black character is difficult. Bonnie Greer believes Othello is bigger than the part, it is a system, a universe, the role doesn’t even have to be gender specific. She strongly advocates a black man or woman to direct the play, what is important is how the play is interpreted, not who is in it. Gbadamosi tries on two occasions to ask why it is no longer acceptable for a white actor to black up for the role but his question is ignored and so remains unanswered.

Series

Night Waves

Language

English

Country

Great Britain

Medium

Radio

Transmission details

29 Apr 2008 at 21:45 (Channel: BBC Radio 3)

Duration

45 mins

Credits

Contributor

Ben Thomas; Bonnie Greer; Felix Cross; Gabriel Gbadamosi

Additional Details

Production type

Documentary/Educational/News

Plays

Othello

Subjects

Drama

Keywords

Shakespeare, William (1564-1616); Black actors

Archive

Name

British Library Sound Archive

Email

listening@bl.uk

Web

http://www.bl.uk/nsa External site opens in new window

Phone

020 7412 7676

Fax

020 7412 7441

Address

96 Euston Road
London
NW1 2DB