A new production of Shakespeare’s Othello is now playing at Riverside Studios in London.

This fast-paced version of Shakespeare’s tragedy sees the role of Iago played by three actors: Downton Abbey’s Michael Fox, Orlando James (Stillness Breathes Softly Against A Brick Wall) and Jeremy Neumark Jones (Private Peaceful).

Featuring live music composed by Michael Fox, this imaginative and fresh take on Othello is conceived by director Sinéad Rushe, and allows audiences to be fully immersed in the story.

The cast also includes Martins Imhangbe (Bridgerton) as Othello, Rose Riley (Hamnet) as Desdemona, Rachel-Leah Hosker (Shut Up, I’m Dreaming) as Emilia/Roderigo, and Ryan O’Doherty (Loki) as Cassio/Brabantio.

We caught up with Michael Fox to talk about the show.

Michael Fox is widely known for portraying footman Andy in the Julian Fellowes TV drama and film series Downton Abbey. Other roles include Sam Mendes’ Dunkirk and 1944: Should We Bomb Auschwitz? Upcoming projects include The World Will Tremble and Born Guilty. On stage he has appeared in Kerry Jackson at the National Theatre.

Othello is playing at the Riverside Studios to 29 October 2023. Book Othello tickets

Othello at Riverside Studios - Michael Fox. Photo by Mark Douet
Othello at Riverside Studios – Michael Fox as Iago. Photo by Mark Douet

What attracted you to the role of Iago in this new production of Othello by Sinéad Rushe?

I’ve always been fascinated with Iago. I have so many questions around his motives. He’s a man in torment, harbouring a lot of hate. But I’m curious as to how possible it is to portray him as the impartial trusting friend. And allow the events of the play to reveal the depths of his destruction.

How does it work sharing the role with two other actors?

It’s been a wonderful experience. Very challenging, and at times disorienting. But I couldn’t have asked for two better people to collaborate with. And now it’s really under our skin, each performance is a thrill.

In addition to acting in the show, you have also composed the music for the production. How did that come about?

I have. I was part of this production from the very beginning. Sinead, Martins and I go back a long way. So it just came about very organically. I make music away from acting, so to bring those worlds together is very exciting for me.

The music is played live – do you also appear in the band?

I do indeed. We have a couple of live music moments in the play. And so I get to play guitar throughout.

What are some of your favourite moments or scenes in Othello, and why?

Act 3 Scene 3 is one of Shakespeare’s greatest scenes. I relish it every night. Also, in this show in particular, when Othello falls in a trance its an all encompassing, swarming shock to the senses.

What do you think makes Othello relevant to today’s audiences?

It’s a story of manipulation, deception and jealousy. But one of trust and joy also.

You formed the folk duo Michael and Michelle with your Downton Abbey co-star Michelle Dockery. Can you tell us more about that experience, and what ambitions do you have for your music career?

I have huge ambitions in music. Being in the studio with Michelle is a very special time for both of us. And with every new project we are stretching and developing our sound. The response so far has been magic.

Do you prefer the worlds of acting, or music?

It’s impossible to choose. I love both equally for very different reasons. I love music because it’s completely personal. They are my words. It’s more exposing for that reason too. I love acting because it’s someone else’s work. I can get lost in someone else’s imagination. I love that.

You have worked on lots of stage productions, including Clybourne Park and Kerry Jackson. What do you enjoy most about working in theatre?

No two shows are the same. You are completely free with your other actors on stage. Just to play and to bounce off each other. I love how surprising each show can be.

Michael Fox

West End Theatre Quick Fire Questions!

What was your first acting role?

I was in The Bill when I was 5. 

What was the last show you enjoyed in London as an audience member and why?

I loved Romeo and Julie by Gary Owen at the National. I thought the acting was just magic. The written was beautiful. I was blown away by it. 

Which role or show have you most enjoyed being part of in your career and why?

I loved being in Kerry Jackson. Working with Indhu Rubasingham was wonderful. And saying Aprils De Angelis’ words every night was a gift. 

If someone could only see one musical or play before they die, what should it be?

Death of A Salesmen – Arthur Miller. Greatest play of all time…. Hmmm… Or The Caretaker – Pinter … Too hard to choose.

What would be your profession if you hadn’t chosen the theatre and entertainment industry?

I had always wanted to go into the Household Cavalry or the mounted police.

Who is your theatre hero?

I think on stage there is no one quite like Mark Rylance. Also Ben Whishaw is definitely a hero of mine.

Othello is at the Riverside Studios to 29 October 2023. Book Othello tickets here.

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Main photo: Michael Fox. Photo by Iona Wolff

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