‘Othello’ is back on Broadway for the first time in over 40 years. Denzel Washington is playing the lead role with Jake Gyllenhaal as Iago. But that’s not what some people are talking about. The price of tickets is through the roof for this show. And, while some seem to be just fine with that, others have had no problem speaking out to question it.
What It Costs
Tickets to see Denzel Washington as Othello are nearly sold out for at least the rest of April. The highest available ticket we saw is $921. For one seat. Before taxes, fees, etc. Lower-cost seats that were available were over $500. That’s a lot of cash for about two and a half hours of entertainment. Even if it is Denzel Washington.
The show’s director, Kenny Leon, was quoted as saying that there are “student tickets” which are $49 and that they have “digital lotteries every day” if folks can’t afford the full price of the tickets.
“Succession” actor Brian Cox shared his feelings about the ticket prices. He said, “It’s not right. There are amazing shows and hits, but there’s too much money stuff involved in American theatre, where apparently, you’re paying $1,000 a night to see Othello.” Others have expressed similar feelings, like actress Audra McDonald, who talked with Jake Gyllenhaal for Variety. She told him, “Your show opened after mine, so I’m desperate to see it. Also, I can’t afford to come to your show.”
Denzel Washington’s Response
When asked about the price of the tickets, Denzel Washington doesn’t sound too concerned. He pointed out that tickets are “as low as $50. People don’t talk about that,” in an interview for Entertainment Tonight. He was also asked about how he feels about the show’s popularity since tickets are selling out. He said:
I’ve been blessed beyond measure for a long time. I’m not bragging, but I’ve been a part of sold-out shows before. God has blessed me with a great ability, and I’m humbled by the reaction and the response that we’re getting, and I’m humbled by the opportunity to… use my celebrity to help others. That’s what it’s about.
Director Kenny Leon was also asked about the ticket prices. He compared it to seeing Beyoncé or going to a Lakers game. He said, “So to me, with a commercial industry, people are paying what they think it’s worth. A guy showed up the other night and he said, ‘I paid $921 for this ticket and you know what? I don’t want a cent back. I want to figure out how to come back.”
Wrapping it Up
If you find yourself with the extra spending money to see “Othello” on Broadway, that’s fantastic. But, it sounds like the prices are preventing a lot of folks from being able to see the show, even if they are playing to a packed house. We’re thinking there are a lot of credit cards showing much higher balances!
