OTHELLO Cast Set for Classical Theatre of Harlem's Uptown Shakespeare in the Park

The Classical Theatre of Harlem has announced that its 2026 Uptown Shakespeare in the Park production will be William Shakespeare's Othello, directed by Carl Cofield. The free outdoor production will run from July 2–26, 2026 in Marcus Garvey Park, with previews beginning July 2 and opening night set for July 5.

CTH also announced the cast for this summer's production, including Princess Grace Award-winning actor James Udom as Othello, Drama Desk Award recipient Nick Westrate as Iago, Isabel Arraiza as Desdemona, Orlando Grant as Cassio, and Keren Lugo as Emilia.

The cast is led by James Udom as Othello, alongside Nick Westrate as Iago and Isabel Arraiza as Desdemona. Orlando Grant plays Cassio, with Karen Lugo as Emilia and Hiram Delgado as Roderigo.

Also featured in the production are Gilbert Cruz as Brabantio and Gratiano, Rebecca Pena as Bianca, Collin McConnell as the Duke of Venice and Lodovico, and Christopher Then as Montano, Governor of Cyprus.

The understudy company includes Brynlie Hemlich (Bianca), Men Ca (Othello), Jo Rich (Brabantio and Duke tracks), and Brady Moldrup (Cassio).

A gripping exploration of jealousy, power, race, and manipulation, Othello remains one of Shakespeare's most urgent and emotionally-charged tragedies. Through its signature lens, The Classical Theatre of Harlem will bring renewed perspective to the play's timeless themes.

“For Uptown Shakespeare in the Park, we seek plays that speak directly to our audiences today,” said Ty Jones, Producing Artistic Director of CTH. “Othello's unraveling is not just personal; it is societal. It asks audiences to see how racism, militarization, and psychological trauma intertwine to destroy both the body and the soul. His tragedy is not jealousy alone, but the crushing aftermath of being asked to serve, to excel, to assimilate — and yet never to belong. Presenting this work outdoors, free and accessible to all, as always, is central to our mission.”

“At its core, Othello is about what happens when a person is isolated from their own humanity. This production explores the emotional and psychological cost of being othered, while also celebrating the beauty, intimacy, and vulnerability that make these characters so deeply human. Harlem audiences understand these tensions instinctively, and that makes Marcus Garvey Park the perfect home for this story.” said Carl Cofield, Associate Artistic Director of CTH and director of the production.

Uptown Shakespeare in the Park has become a summer cultural touchstone in New York City, drawing thousands of attendees each year and creating an open, welcoming space where classical theater is experienced collectively. The 2026 production of Othello will continue CTH's commitment to inclusive casting, community engagement, and high-caliber artistic excellence.

Additional details including the full creative team and partner organizations will be announced at a later date.