From Willard White to Adrian Lester, modern theatre has yielded some terrific Othellos – but none more so than Chiwetel Ejiofor, writes Michael Billington

Once regarded as salacious, Shakespeare's tale of seduction and the abuse of power has proved a natural fit for modern times, writes Michael Billington

The tale of a poor physician's daughter who cures a king and claims a husband as reward sits well with modern gender politics. Here are my favourite stagings, writes Michael Billington

By setting this play in a modern African state, the RSC's Gregory Doran gave its debate new urgency. Which versions of Julius Caesar have you hailed?

From Robert Stephens and Maggie Smith to Simon Russell Beale and Zoë Wanamaker, countless duos have sparred as Benedick and Beatrice. What's your favourite version of the play?

From Ben Kingsley's Ford to Bill Alexander's 50s-era staging, Shakespeare's only purely English comedy perfectly captures middle-class mores. Let us know the best versions you've seen, writes Michael Billington

Michael Billington recalls a feast of Falstaffs including Joss Ackland, David Warner and Orson Welles. Tell us your favourite versions of these state-of-the-nation plays

Peter O'Toole, Patrick Stewart and Antony Sher have all made stunning Shylocks – which versions of this problematic play have you been sold on?

This enchanting comedy has been revived many times yet the play gives constant pleasure. Peter Brook and Michael Boyd's versions both had a magical sensuality, writes Michael Billington

Shakespeare's poorly plotted tragedy turns on the shortcomings of the Veronese postal service and is eclipsed by West Side Story – yet the best productions overcome these defects, writes Michael Billington

David Tennant, Samuel West and Ian Richardson have all excelled in the role but Ben Whishaw's king was extraordinary – part Jesus Christ and part Michael Jackson

Some take this story of the wavering king more seriously than others. Do you share Michael Billington's grudging affection for this unloved play?

This perfectly plotted play can be pure magic – especially with a cast including Judi Dench and Richard Griffiths. What's your favourite version?

Michael Billington is still haunted by Antony Sher and Laurence Olivier's portrayals. Which versions of the play have you enjoyed the most?

The complete trilogy – as staged over the years by Terry Hands, Michael Bogdanov and Michael Boyd – made a lasting impression on Michael Billington. Which are your favourite versions?