This is the first time a play will be performed on the Dubai Opera stage.

Shakespeare fans, get excited: Othello is coming to Dubai Opera.

The tragic tale will be performed on the Dubai Opera stage from January 30 to February 2, with matinee and evening performances on Friday and Saturday. It’s the first ever play to be staged at the stunning Downtown Dubai venue.

They’ve picked a pretty significant one to be the first. Written by William Shakespeare, Othello was first performed in 1604. There have since been so many different interpretations of the play that it’s clear the story transcends the time in which it was written.

And what a story it is – Othello encompasses themes of love, betrayal, and jealousy. In fact, Othello is where the phrase “green-eyed monster” came from.

Directed by Richard Twyman, the Dubai performance follows a critically acclaimed tour and London run.

Here’s an interview with the director and actors:

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Dubai Opera chief executive Jasper Hope said: “Shakespeare may have written Othello 400 years ago but the story is nonetheless completely contemporary in so many regards.

“I am so excited to announce that our first play at Dubai Opera will be the English Touring Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of this great tragedy and world-class theatre can now be added to our terrific range of outstanding live performance.”

Ticket prices start from Dhs150.

A fifth performance is scheduled on the January 29 with ticket sales available exclusively for schools. For more information please email boxoffice@dubaiopera.com

Othello, Dubai Opera, January 30 to February 2, from Dhs150. dubaiopera.com

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