HOW fortunate is TFT in at last being able to stage this powerful story of jealousy, deceit and murder, thanks to the casting of Mikhail McKay in the title role as the eloquent and physically powerful Venetian general?

Stature Mckay brings stature and dignity to the role, and a fine command of the verse, whether expressing his outspoken love for his wife Desdemona, or being tormented by the seeds of jealousy cunningly planted by the devious Iago (an over-quiet and unduly slow-paced Nathan Webb).

Lauren Monckton’s performance as the wronged Desdemona was one of credible bewilderment, going to her death at Othello’s hands still professing her love and constancy to him, with Nadine Redman as her vocal attendant Emilia finally exposing her husband Iago as an evil manipulator.

Nathan Stokell’s Cassio and Chris Morrison Govan’s Roderigo also stood out in director Ian Hylands’ too often slow-paced and under-lit production.

Ed Howson.