For a comedian, who is untrained in the dramatic arts, to venture into Shakespeare for the first time takes some courage. For that comedian to take on the lead role in a Northern Broadsides production is a huge leap of faith. But Lenny Henry has been well prepared.
Newly bearded and physically imposing, he is every inch the valiant Moor. There is no sign of Lenny Henry the comedian.
He is surrounded by actors speaking in their natural, northern voices, which is the Broadsides company style. But rather than lapse into his native Dudley, a move bound to bring on immediate audience giggles, he has concentrated on power and clarity. That said the voice is still recognisably Lenny Henry.
There was some excusable hesitancy in the soliloquies, on press night, but more performances will boost Henry’s confidence. The killing of Desdemona, though, needs more disciplined playing if it is not to lapse into moments of farce.
The relationship with Jessica Harris’ Desdemona will benefit from prolonged attention and is sure to get it. There are few signs of chemistry between the pair.
What of the other actors? They are all fetchingly costumed in an array of browns and creams in late Victorian style. Conrad Nelson’s slimy Iago is a masterly performance laced with sweetly relished asides. Richard Standing’s Cassio and Matt Connor’s Roderigo are both well played.
When this production is bedded in, Lenny Henry will prove to be a good actor in very good company.
Production information can change over the run of the show.
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