CST Makes Special Visit to the Cook County Department of Corrections
Marking the 100th performance of Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s Othello: The Remix (written, directed and with music by The Q Brothers), cast members performed the hip-hop adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragedy for inmates on Monday, May 20, 2013 at Cook County Department of Corrections. After the performance, actors answered questions from the audience in a discussion led by The Q Brothers and Superintendent Edward J. Byrne. The performance was made possible through a partnership between The Q Brothers, Chicago Shakespeare Theater and Still Point Theatre Collective.
Subsequently, the impact of this special engagement was made apparent by Sergeant Freeman’s report to Superintendant Byrne:
“Sir, while conducting rounds, I had the opportunity to speak to detainees in regards to the opportunity given them to see the play. To my surprise several of the inmates were reading their program, each comment was positive, most told me that they were honored that you gave them the opportunity to witness this play, and some stated that they probably would never [have] had that opportunity out in the world. They were truly amazed at the work these young actors put into their performance, and seem to take pride in the fact that you gave them this opportunity. I was told to tell you 'THANK YOU.'”
Pictured: The cast of Othello: The Remix performs at Cook County Department of Corrections.
Photo by Michael Litchfield.