Othello of Overtown at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale

Othello of Overtown is an original theatrical work blending art, history, live jazz, original music and archival footage, inspired by the life of self-taught Miami artist Purvis Young (1943–2010), whose work chronicled the people, struggles and spirit of Miami's Overtown neighborhood. Written by Miami-born playwright Sefanja Richard Galon and directed by Carey Brianna Hart, the production uses Shakespeare's tragedy as a dramatic frame for Young's artistic and personal struggle. The cast includes Andre Gainey as Purvis/Othello, Chantal Mendoza as Purvis' Art/Desdemona, JohnBarry Green as The Man/Iago, and Celine Hakoun as The Curator, among others. This reading is part of continued development toward a full production planned for 2027.