Shakespeare's Henry V

Time and Location

Shakespeare’s EPIC coming of age saga of war, politics, and love.

What can a production mounted in 2020, of a play written in 1599, about events which happened in 1415, tell us about the consequences of war and the responsibilities of leadership, both in the context of historical events, and in light of our contemporary world?

The king of England takes a badly outnumbered army to defeat the French (“Once more unto the breach, dear friends...”). Years later he tries to woo the French princess, but neither speaks the other's language well. Violence and war combine with brotherhood ("We few, we happy few, we band of brothers"), honor and love.

A kingdom for a stage, princes to act, and you - our monarchs - to behold the swelling scene...

Photos from the production!

Thanks to Rachel Bayne

Two performers in medieval attire are at a stalemate chewing on each others shoes as their friends look on amused and horrified from a platform.
Two actors battle with rods in their black gear as one leaps aggressively to attack the other.
Henry V riles up soldiers in battlewear as they cheer and lift their weapons in solidarity.
Young actor in a white, lacy dress bows deeply on a platform as her maid claps with joy.
Henry V and their trusted advisors worriedly look to the distance as battle approaches.

Disability Accommodations

For disability accommodations, please contact the department presenting the event. Disability access information is available online at Parking Services, and further resources can be found by contacting Western's Disability Access Center.