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Published on March 24, 2025
Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal Ignite Broadway in Historic 'Othello' Revival at NYC's Barrymore TheatreSource: Wikipedia/ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Barrymore Theatre was the epicenter of New York City's buzz yesterday as Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal took to the stage for the opening night of 'Othello,' a play that hasn't haunted Broadway's hallowed halls since 1982. In a modern twist, the classic Shakespeare tragedy, directed by the esteemed Kenny Leon, transports audiences into a near-futuristic setting. "I think Denzel has given his whole self on the stage eight shows a week. He doesn't have to do that other than he wants to impact lives -- his Othello is going on that spiritual journey. It's just a real special production," Leon said, as reported by ABC7 New York

Apart from the stellar performances, the night was also a fashionable affair, punctuated by Jennifer Lopez and her child Emme's appearance, which had them both donning coordinating black ensembles. The stylish pair made a statement outside of the theatre, with Lopez in a sparkling two-piece with an accompanying fur coat and Emme sporting a pinstriped suit, as captured by People. The 55-year-old singer and actress was clearly proud to be there with her 17-year-old child, echoing her affection with a foregone Instagram post for the twins' 17th birthday.

The production has not only managed to refresh an over 400-year-old story but also to already break Broadway records as the highest-grossing play ever. Molly Osborne, who plays Desdemona, told ABC7 New York, "It has been a dream working for this company. I hope audiences come and they see something new and fresh even though it's a 400-year-old play."

The star-studded event wasn't just a hit among the actors and their immediate fans. Celebrities like Jamie Lee Curtis and Rosie Perez also attended, with Curtis revealing to ABC7 New York her exhilaration, "To know someone since they were five and watch them become an artist -- to be able to watch Jake tonight to take on one of the most challenging roles is just thrilling." Meanwhile, Perez expressed her enthusiasm for being part of the monumental evening, "Just appreciative that I get to be a part of history. This is a historic evening. Break legs all over the place -- it's gonna be amazing."

With the play scheduled to run through only the first week in June, those wanting to witness this cultural phenomenon are encouraged to swiftly get their tickets.