Martin Imhangbe Stars In Othello
Martins Imhangbe, best known for his role as Will Mondrich in Bridgerton, takes to the stage in Sinead Rushe’s interpretation of Othello. In this interpretation, Imhangbe’s Othello is faced with three Iago’s, providing new perspectives on how Iago is able to influence Othello. With the blend of three Iago’s and live music composed by Michael C. Fox, Othello is brought to life in a new way which Martins hopes will allow the audience to see the characters as fully rounded people and not solely stereotypes.
Now a week into performance, Martins takes some time to speak with us about his role as Othello, the rehearsal process, and the themes of the play that are most prevalent to him.
Photo by Mark Douet
How has it been to see your work coming to fruition?
It feels beautiful, I feel very proud. Everyone has worked extremely hard to make this happen and to be amongst that energy every show is truly special.
Has the presence of three Iago’s changed how you bring Othello to life?
It definitely adds a lot to it, and we get a deeper insight into the psychology of these characters. Each actor brings something very unique to the role of Iago which is infectious, and you can’t help but be affected by this.
As you’ve been rehearsing the play, have you drawn any similarities or striking differences between how you and Othello navigate the world?
A similarity in my opinion would be having an awareness of where I come from, understanding the importance of family and ancestors as a guiding light. Also, an awareness of a higher power and being connected to it. A striking difference would be only trusting one voice, I’d like to think that I’d draw upon more than one perspective on a proposed suspicion. Then again, the circumstances do vary depending on who, what, where and when; I try not to negatively judge the characters I play but try to understand them on a humane level. We all would like to think we know how we would react in any given situation, but do we truly know, if we haven’t gone through that journey, or been in that circumstance?
The play explores many themes such as betrayal, love, and deception. Are there any themes that have stuck out to you throughout the rehearsals and into bringing the play to stage?
Love! Love has been a big one for me. These people deeply love each other, and they openly say it and express it, not only in the stereotypical way, but in all its facets. Love is complicated and it can make or break us. Love is the starting point from which all these other themes are born - it ties in jealousy, betrayal and deception in a very painful and beautiful way.
What has been most enjoyable about the rehearsal process?
Watching each and every actor give their all! It’s been inspiring to be amongst. The openness in our conversations and exploration. Our director curated a very safe space for us to be dangerous within and take risks, but also grounding us in truth and generosity throughout.
What would you like the audience to take away from this rendition of Othello?
To be able to see themselves within these characters and witness fully rounded humans and not stereotypes.
And finally, how will you be celebrating the success of the play?
Haha, don’t know yet! But every show feels like a celebration of our work, so I’m grateful for that.
Othello is in currently running at Riverside Studios till the 29th of October.