The new staging of Othello, the first on Broadway since 1982, set a box office record for a play in previews. They’re coming for Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Shakespeare, probably in that order. Some tickets are going for as much as US$920 – which shouldn’t be a surprise considering the star power. From the moment the revival was announced last year, this was a draw; after all, it’s Denzel Washington, described in the programme as “the most lauded stage and screen actor of his generation” as the title character opposite Jake G, perhaps the most versatile actor of his own generation, who thrives in villain performances – and Iago is, in my opinion anyway, Shakespeare’s ultimate villain.
The reviews so far, though, seem to be medium; it’s not the performances, it’s the direction and the set design. This is a modern interpretation – the story is set in the near distant future, like about a decade from now, in Venice and Cyprus, but with American military uniforms and, according to some critics, the talent can’t overcome the disconnect and the underwhelming visuals.
But that’s not what’s making headlines. Because opening night attracted a parade of celebrities and former President Joe Biden and Dr Jill Biden. Denzel received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Biden back in January. It looked like it was an emotional moment for Denzel.
Other guests last night included Angela Bassett in a wonderful red pantsuit and also Spike Lee, who directed both Angela and Denzel in Malcolm X.
More Spike alumni: Samuel L Jackson and Rosie Perez.
And Oscar winners and nominees including Ariana DeBose, Colman Domingo, and Jamie Lee Curtis.
Also, Jennifer Lopez and Katie Holmes, who used to hang out socially when they were married to Marc Anthony and Tom Cruise, respectively, and I wonder what it’s like now when they run into each other.
And if you’re wondering whether or not Jake and Jeanne Cadieu are still together – she was there, she shows up around the 30 second mark of this video below in a dramatic high collar dress with sheer sides so we’re now going on seven years since they’ve been together which, I think, is officially his longest relationship.
@broadwaycom Hollywood and Broadway’s brightest stars have arrived on OTHELLO’s Broadway opening night red carpet to support Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal and company. Find your tickets now at Broadway.com to experience this Shakespeare classic live directed by Kenny Leon. #othello #broadway #celebrity #openingnight #fyp #redcarpet #theatretok #theatrekid #openingnight
♬ original sound - broadwaycom
