Buy Tickets

$18 all tickets (no member discounts)

Doors open for admissions 30 minutes prior to screening. Buy tickets at The Film Center or online now

Sorry, no member discounts for this show

The MV Film Society is proud to announce a special screening of the iconic film “Othello,” directed by Liz White and filmed in 1966 in Martha’s Vineyard. This legendary production, starring the incomparable Yaphet Kotto, was the first all black cast adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Othello”. This film produced by and starring Benny Ashburn, manager and founder of The Commodores, holds immense significance in black history and highlights the remarkable legacy of the cultural heritage on the island.

“Othello” is a cinematic masterpiece that broke barriers and challenged societal norms during a pivotal time in history. Through its powerful storytelling and outstanding performances, the film brilliantly brings Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy to life, while addressing themes of race, identity, and love. This groundbreaking production showcased the immense talent and artistic capabilities of black actors and filmmakers, paving the way for future generations in the industry.

Liz White’s direction, combined with Yaphet Kotto’s mesmerizing portrayal of “Othello”, captivates audiences to this day. Both Liz White’s & Benny Ashburn’s commitment to amplifying diverse voices and stories through film, music and art has left an indelible mark on black cinema.

Liz White and Benny Ashburn’s family legacy runs deep in Martha’s Vineyard. Both are direct descendants of Charles & Henrietta Shearer, the founders of The Inn at Shearer Cottage. The Inn at Sherer Cottage was built in 1912 and was the first inn catering to African Americas what at the time were not welcomed at other island establishments. The Shearer’s provided lodging, meals, catered events and was a safe space for the community. It was also a frequent home to The Commodores in the 70’s and acted as a summer home to the group while they rehearsed for tour.

Join us on Friday, August 11th from 7pm – 10pm at The MV Film Center for a night of celebration and remembrance. The event will include a Q&A with Stuart Gray (Son of Douglas Gray), Shera Toledo (Great Great Granddaughter of Liz White) and Beny Ashburn (Daughter of Benny Ashburn and CEO of Crowns & Hops Brewing Co). Following the Q&A will be a happy hour sponsored by Crowns & Hops Brewing Co (The first Black Owned, Women Owned and Veteran Owned brewery from Inglewood CA)

 

Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Shearer White was an American independent film producer and founder of the Shearer Summer Theatre in Martha’s Vineyard. She is known for her stage production of Shakespeare’s Othello with an all-black cast, which she eventually filmed and released as a movie in 1980 at Howard University.
White worked as an actress and dresser on Broadway before eventually returning to Oak Bluffs where she grew up. There, she formed one of the first summer theatre groups on the island featuring the African-American residents and vacationers of Oak Bluffs. The theatre group was active from 1946 up until the early 1960s.

 

 

 

 

“Liz White’s film of Othello is a remarkable example of independent filmmaking as well
as an original and compelling reading of Shakespeare’s text.” – Peter Donaldson, Shakespeare Quarterly