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Broadway

Denzel Washington’s Othello is Raking in the Dough, But at What Cost?
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Denzel Washington’s Othello is Raking in the Dough, But at What Cost?

Denzel Washington’s triumphant return to the stage as Othello marks a historic moment in Broadway history. Setting unprecedented box office records with standard tickets at $350 and premium seats exceeding $900, this Shakespearean revival rivals commercial powerhouses like Hamilton. But beyond the financial triumph lies a deeper significance: At 70, Washington brings authentic gravitas to Shakespeare’s aging Moorish general, fulfilling a full-circle journey that began with playing the same role as a 20-year-old drama student at Fordham University. Director Kenny Leon’s contemporary reimagining—set in 2028 with Othello as a U.S. Marine commander—explores timeless themes of race, power, and war’s psychological impact through a distinctly modern lens. Washington’s performance demonstrates why classical theater remains powerful and relevant in today’s entertainment landscape.
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