'Othello' is a violent exploration of love and jealousy, and what separates it.
It's one of Shakespeare's most famous tragedies; a gripping production that will attempt to deeply connect with audience members when Bell Shakespeare presents it at Sydney Opera House at the end of October.
Alice Keohavong plays Bianca in the production. Bianca is Cassio's jealous lover, who is one of only three female characters in 'Othello'. Although she is one of the more minor characters, she plays a crucial role in the unveiling of the plot and the scheming throughout the show.
For some more information about the production, Alice answered some questions.
First of all, you've been working with Bell Shakespeare for quite a while. How does 'Othello' compare to other productions you've been involved with?
I've always been fascinated by' Othello' ever since I had to study it in high school. I found the otherness, racism and alienation within it really resonated with me. Now that I'm older and actually in a production of it, I've found that the voices (or lack of voices) of the women within the play really fascinating. So I feel like 'Othello' has had a bit of a journey with me which is quite unique to the other productions I've been in.
For those playing at home, could you give us a brief run-down of the plot of 'Othello'?Desdemona falls in love with Othello and they secretly marry. She is the daughter of a noble senator who disapproves of the marriage even though Othello is a great general, for he is a Moor (North-African – though this is up for discussion). They are sent to Cyprus (without daddy dearest) to defeat an enemy army, but the enemy is defeated by a huge storm at sea. So all these soldiers are now stuck on this island with no war to fight. Throughout this whole time, Othello's ensign Iago is secretly plotting to bring about Othello's downfall… And I'll leave the rest for you to find out what happens...
Bianca plays quite a big part in the scheming of things in this show... Could you tell us more?
I'm afraid if I tell you too much it'll ruin the surprise of what happens (if you're not familiar with the text). Let's just say she's a vivid and fun character who doesn't really have a fun time in the play... It's interesting to note that the women are often used as part of the scheming and manipulating in this play without their knowledge till it's too late. And it's often the women, from my perspective, that pay the price; Bianca included.
What do you think it is that has carried Shakespeare through theatre all these years later?
I could say it's all those things you hear people talk about; the universal themes, timeless stories and the poetry in the words, which it is. But I think it's also just the genius in the writing itself. Shakespeare manages to paint such vivid and full images that are not just fun to perform but to also hear. And in Iambic Pentameter too! He shows us just how powerful language can be. Some of the writing is a bit outdated, kinda un-PC and of its time but there is still so much that isn't and it's no wonder that people still love performing and studying it.
What are you most looking forward to with this production?
I'm looking forward to bringing it back home to Sydney and seeing what people respond to. Though this story is hundreds of years old, I like to think that our production brings up questions and issues that is still relevant to us today.
What have you done to prepare for this role?
Before every show the whole cast participate in an actor training physical warm up called Biomechanics. It's very challenging but has helped us become very show fit. So physical training was, and is, one way I prep... Which I love. Before the show began I also did a lot of research not only on 'Othello' but on Venice, Courtesans and the role of civilian women caught in a military world. So research, research, research.
What can Shakespeare lovers expect to see at 'Othello'?
A nightmare on stage… But hopefully a good nightmare! But not good because it's terrible what happens… But a good show…Have I confused you yet? Good, you'll have to come see the show to find out what I'm talking about.
What's the hardest part about learning a Shakespeare script, and what's the easiest?
Hardest part is remembering the words! A lot of words aren't in use, were created by Shakespeare or have a completely different meaning to what it was hundreds of years ago so even though you may get the gist of what you’re saying, you still need to remember the exact words. There's little room for improvising text with Shakespeare. It's also easy to fall into a sing song rhythm with Shakespeare, so breaking out of it can be tricky. Easiest part? Once you've done your homework and figured out what each single word means, it's fun to play with the words. It's so muscular that you can feel the words in your mouth and once work becomes fun, I think it then becomes easy (or easier).
