Simon Godwin directs Wendell Pierce (Elsbeth, The Wire) in Shakespeare’s towering tragedy about the power of words to kill. Venice is scandalized when its protector, Othello (Pierce), elopes with a nobleman’s daughter, while his most trusted lieutenant, Iago, seethes after being passed over for a promotion. Vengeful Iago speaks a word and contorts the world: transforming Othello’s faithful wife into an adulteress and upright men into beasts.

Tickets

This production is currently only available in a 25/26 Season Subscription. New subscriptions on sale now. Packages and single tickets on sale summer 2025. Join our email list for updates.

Wendell Pierce to lead the cast of Simon Godwin’s Othello in 25/26 Season

We are pleased to announce that Simon Godwin will direct Wendell Pierce (Elsbeth, Selma, Death of a Salesman, The Wire) in the titular role of Shakespeare’s towering tragedy, Othello, at Harman Hall.

Pierce spoke with CBS Sunday Morning about his life and career, role in Elsbeth currently airing on CBS, and revealed his plans to perform Othello with STC, and as editor Perry White in the new Superman movie.

“I am thrilled we can officially announce that Wendell Pierce will be returning to STC next season in my new production of Othello,” says STC Artistic Director Simon Godwin. “Wendell is a masterful classical actor and has the charisma and consummate craft to play one of Shakespeare’s greatest and most tragic creations. I am delighted to be collaborating with Wendell in Washington on this towering masterpiece.”

Pierce was last seen at STC in The Witch of Edmonton in 1987.

Othello will be one of six plays in the 25/26 Season, which also includes Merry Wives, The Wild Duck, Guys and Dolls, On Beckett, Hamnet, plus special add-on Paranormal Activity: A New Story Live on Stage.

All shows, artists, venues, and dates are subject to change.