RSC Postpones Lesbian 'Othello' as Sharon D Clarke Undergoes Cancer Treatment
The Royal Shakespeare Company has postponed its production of Othello, which stars Sharon D Clarke, due to her ongoing cancer treatment. The show was meant to take place from February 13 to April 3, 2027, at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon and directed by Monique Touko, but will now be rescheduled. Clarke, who is 60 and known for roles in Holby City and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, has thanked everyone for their support. Ticket holders will receive refunds, and the RSC will announce new dates soon. Touko praised Clarke as "the ultimate collaborator," emphasizing a fresh take on the tragedy through the lens of misogynoir, while co-artistic directors Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey noted Clarke's essential role in the adaptation.
Key facts
- Royal Shakespeare Company postpones Othello starring Sharon D Clarke.
- Clarke undergoes treatment for cancer.
- Production directed by Monique Touko.
- Scheduled to run 13 February to 3 April 2027 at Swan theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon.
- Clarke is a three-time Olivier winner.
- Production reimagines Othello through lens of misogynoir.
- Set in climate-threatened future with Black lesbian in power.
- Ticket holders to be automatically refunded.
Entities
Artists
- Sharon D Clarke
- Monique Touko
- Susie McKenna
- Daniel Evans
- Tamara Harvey
- Ncuti Gatwa
Institutions
- Royal Shakespeare Company
- Swan theatre
- BBC
- National Theatre
- Lyric Hammersmith
- @sohoplace
Locations
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- United Kingdom