NWCTC's Othello

We settled in for yet another excellent production by our favorite Shakespeare company.  This production was directed by Bill Alexander, who came to Portland just to work with NWCTC.  The cast was fabulous with WRICK Jones a dogged and growling Othello and Michael Mendelson a deliciously conniving Iago.  But the people who really "brought it" to the production were the women:  Susan Nelle was an excellent Doge of Venice, Clara-Liis Hillier was an electric Bianca (who was also wearing a fabulous dress thanks to costume designer McKenna Twedt.)  Dana Millican was mesmerizing as Emilia, melting under the sway of Iago, collapsing when she realized the extent of her betrayal.  Melissa Whitney was a radiant  Desdemona, full of love, full of confusion and fully betrayed.

The fight scenes were also enjoyable, they seemed just enough out of control that the actors would go tumbling into the audience.  And Matt was delighted to sit next to the seat Iago returned to again and again to recount with glee his devious plans.

We're looking forward to Pericles, which is right around the corner.