The Best Part of Denzel Washington’s Othello Is the Kanye West Song

Critics recently panned Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal’s production of Othello, particularly criticizing the director’s decision to set the play in the “Near Future.” However, the highlight of the show came after the actors left the stage when a gospel cover of Kanye West’s “Ultralight Beam” played. This unexpected choice prompted comparisons between Othello’s tragic character and Kanye West’s controversial persona, offering a modern twist to the classic play. While the use of pop songs in theater productions is not new, the inclusion of “Ultralight Beam” added depth and relevance to the performance, sparking discussions about the intersection of Shakespearean themes and contemporary issues. Despite the missed opportunity for some audience members to fully appreciate this moment, the use of music in this production hinted at the potential for reimagining Shakespeare in a modern context.