Bell Shakespeare‘s nationally-touring production of Othello will play Laycock Street Community Theatre for three performances on 5 and 6 September ahead of its run at Sydney’s Opera House.

Exploring issues of racism, violence and misogyny, this epic tragedy is often a challenging play to perform for contemporary audiences.

Artistic Director Peter Evan’s production about the infamous Moor explores the battle between love and jealousy and demonstrates how the play reflects current situations in our own political and social climate.

Central Coast Council’s Manager of Culture, Phil Cantillon said this is the third consecutive year that Laycock has brought Bell Shakespeare to the Central Coast.

“As Australia's leading theatre company specialising in the works of William Shakespeare, Bell Shakespeare often gives unexpected interpretations of Shakespeare; using contemporary styles, costumes and sets to make us reconsider the characters we’ve long been familiar with.

“Bell Shakespeare has become synonymous with leading world-class theatre.  They are about making Shakespeare fresh and accessible, which is why we are always delighted to see a very high attendance of high school students and young people at these visionary productions,” explained Mr Cantillon.

The relationship between Bell Shakespeare and Laycock Street Community Theatre continues to strengthen.

“This year we were able to further extend our relationship with Bell Shakespeare, with two days of auditions at Laycock for the 2016 John Bell Scholarship. We eagerly look forward to hearing the results. It may not be long before we are watching one of our own talented young people on stage in future productions,” Mr Cantillon added.

Rich in secrets and betrayal, Othello is a triumphant General returning from battle. A man swept up in desire, his passion quickly turns to murderous rage when he is betrayed by his military brother-in-arms, the cynically destructive Iago.

This production stars Ray Chong Nee as Othello (Bell Shakespeare’s The Dream and MTC’s I Call My Brothers) and Yalin Ozucelik as Iago (Bell Shakespeare’s Henry IV and STC’s Cyrano de Bergerac), in one of Shakespeare’s most captivating and implosive pairings.

For further details and to book tickets visit www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/theatres