Our Othello Theatre Trip

Kwame Matlawe

Our Othello trip was an experience that will stay with me for a long time. After spending months pouring over Shakespeare’s words in the classroom —debating character motives, analysing themes and trying to grasp the full weight of the tragedy — finally watching it happen on stage felt like stepping into the heart of the play itself. The anticipation alone made the day feel special, but nothing could have prepared me for how powerful the live performance would be.

As the lights dimmed and the actors stepped into their roles, I found myself completely drawn in. It was no longer just a story we were studying for school — it was something much more real, something alive. Othello’s torment, Iago’s wickedness, Desdemona’s grace — all the emotions we had only imagined came rushing to the surface. The actors’ voices echoed with pain, anger and betrayal, and you could feel the tension in the theatre. I sat there, completely still, captivated by every movement, every pocket of silence, every dramatic twist. The way the production brought Shakespeare’s language to life was nothing short of magical. The set design, the lighting, the costumes — it all came together in a way that made the 400-year-old play feel timeless.

But the day wasn’t just about theatre and tragedy. One of the most exciting and memorable parts of the excursion was our stop at Rosebank Mall. After the emotional intensity of the performance, the shift in energy was refreshing. Rosebank was buzzing with life — colourful, loud and full of options. Whether it was hunting down the best milkshake, laughing over massive burgers or just walking through the shops with friends, that part of the day brought its own kind of joy. It gave us a chance to unwind, to talk about the play with fresh energy and to just be teenagers again after being swept into the world of Shakespeare.

What made the whole experience so special was the balance it offered — an enriching dive into literature and performance, paired with the light-hearted fun of hanging out in one of Joburg’s most vibrant spots. The Othello excursion wasn’t just another school outing. It was a moment where learning, friendship and culture came together to create a day that was as thought-provoking as it was enjoyable. I walked away with a deeper appreciation for Shakespeare, a stronger connection to my classmates and a memory I’ll always look back on with a smile.