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The Royal Shakespeare Company has postponed its production of “Othello,” with Sharon D. Clarke set to play the title role, so the actor can undergo treatment for cancer.
The show had been scheduled to run Feb. 13 through
April 3, 2027, at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Touko’s staging reimagines the Shakespeare tragedy with a focus on misogynoir.
Touko said the creative team sends Clarke love for her ongoing treatment and recovery. She called Clarke “the ultimate collaborator,” saying her generosity and passion for the project continues to astound her, and that she looks forward to reuniting with Clarke to bring the production to audiences when the time is right.
RSC co-artistic directors Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey said Clarke’s casting is integral to Touko’s adaptation, which is why the company made the difficult decision to postpone the run and give Clarke the space she needs for treatment. Describing Clarke as “a warrior,” they said they expect her to meet the challenge with the same strength and spirit she brings to her life and work, and that the RSC looks forward to revisiting the production in future, sending Clarke love and strength for a full recovery.
Clarke thanked the RSC for its support. “Othello will be my north star as I undergo treatment,” she said, adding that she and her family have been humbled by the outpouring of support they have received.
The RSC said ticket holders impacted by the postponement will be issued automatic refunds, with news on replacement programming for the slot to follow.
