How is this year’s edition of Shakespeare in the Park “bigger and bolder”?
The set is huge in concept and size. We are using more projection this year, in a stylized way, to tell the story. We want the audience to walk away from the show feeling like they have had great value for money and an excellent night’s entertainment.
How do Shakespearean works inspire you?
It is some of the greatest writing in the English language. The stories he tells and the poetry he created are what stand the test of time. In my opinion, he finds ways of communicating universal human traits in his plays more successfully than any other writer.
Can you personally relate to the themes in Othello?
If the question is, “Have I felt jealousy? Or betrayed?”, then the answer is yes. “Would I deal with it in the way that some of the characters in Othello do?”, then the answer is no.
What do you think of the local theater scene?
People are beginning to appreciate it more and more. One of the reasons I love working here is that there is a sense of possibility and enthusiasm for great work.
How can theater shake off its reputation of just catering to the rich?
It’s a huge misconception. Shakespeare wrote for the common people of London. Theater is one of the oldest and most popular art forms in the world.
Shakespeare in the Park—Othello is on through May 19, 7:30pm at Fort Canning Park.
