Othello

Presented by: The Classical Theatre of Harlem

Date & Time: Tuesday, 7/14/26 at 8:30 pm EST

Location: Marcus Garvey Park, Harlem, NY 10027

FREE ADMISSION

About the Event: The Classical Theatre of Harlem (CTH), the award-winning theater company dedicated to bringing accessible, world-class classical theater to diverse audiences, announced today that its 2026 Uptown Shakespeare in the Park production will be William Shakespeare’s Othello, directed by Carl Cofield. The free outdoor production will take place summer 2026 in Marcus Garvey Park, continuing CTH’s beloved tradition of presenting bold, resonant Shakespeare in the heart of Harlem.

A gripping exploration of jealousy, power, race, and manipulation, Othello remains one of Shakespeare’s most urgent and emotionally-charged tragedies. Through its signature lens, The Classical Theatre of Harlem will bring renewed perspective to the play’s timeless themes.

“For Uptown Shakespeare in the Park, we seek plays that speak directly to our audiences today,” said Ty Jones, Artistic Director of The Classical Theatre of Harlem. “Othello’s unraveling is not just personal; it is societal. It asks audiences to see how racism, militarization, and psychological trauma intertwine to destroy both the body and the soul. His tragedy is not jealousy alone, but the crushing aftermath of being asked to serve, to excel, to assimilate — and yet never to belong. Presenting this work outdoors, free and accessible to all, as always, is central to our mission.”

Uptown Shakespeare in the Park has become a summer cultural touchstone in New York City, drawing thousands of attendees each year and creating an open, welcoming space where classical theater is experienced collectively. The 2026 production of Othello will continue CTH’s commitment to inclusive casting, community engagement, and high-caliber artistic excellence.

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