Acclaimed national touring theatre company Come You Spirits proudly unveils a brand new production of OTHELLO, starring Othniel Mani (63 Globes, Gibber) opposite Charles Mayer as Iago, set against the transformative landscape of early colonial Australia, directed by Josephine Mayer.

This adaptation reframes Shakespeare’s most searing tragedy within a world of first encounters, shifting power, and cultural collision, where love and jealousy unfold against the backdrop of devastating change.

The heart of the story sees the man Othello navigating leadership, trust, prejudice, and betrayal — whose deception and downfall echo the power struggles of the young colony. The redcoats' rivalries in camp are surrounded by timeless country where the hope of harmony weaves through the story, a vision of coexistence and the beauty of learning from ancient perspectives.

The role of Bianca is shared between two First Nations dancers and performers — Ella Havelka (Australian Ballet, Bangarra Dance Theatre) and Erica Dixon (Naisda Dance College, Garwoeidhamin Mayan)— each bringing their own raw intensity to the stripped-back ensemble across different performances.

This new six-character adaptation immerses audiences in Shakespeare’s language while opening pathways for deep discussion around influence, violence and human frailty. First performed at the open-air venue of The Barn in St Albans NSW opposite one of one of New South Wales’ most historic inns - The Settlers Arms Inn (est.1836), the company’s style of site-responsive work weaves through the levels of the historic barn, includes live didgeridoo played by the creator of the First Nations soundscape local Elder Uncle Col Lyons. The production also incorporates traditional weaving, dancing, and a smoking ceremony during the show - offering a deep connection to Country by the whole cast.

This unique experience of the play is hosted by the Settler's Arms Inn as the headline show for the October Long Convict Weekend. The performance will be performed adjacent to the pub in the markets Barn with the action taking place around and among the audience. This is more than a retelling of a classic play — it is a transformative theatrical experience that is uniquely Australian, urgent, and profoundly human.

With consistent ★★★★★ reviews for their touring productions in the wild and in Performing Arts Centres across the country, this is a rare opportunity to catch Come You Spirits and meet the Principal cast. See for yourself why they are hailed as

"Captivating" Sydney Morning Herald

"The best of the best" Sydney Arts Guide

"Nourishment for the eyes, ears, nose and tongue, and offered a weight off the heart and kinship with your fellow human beings" Arts Hub

“Come you Spirits will take you to a place just between the human and the ethereal, to demonstrate just how close we are through language and our connection to the natural world. Utterly Indistinguishable from magic" Theatre Travels