Henry IV

 Henry IV
Theatre for a New Audience
Polonsky Shakespeare Center
February 12, 2025 

Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

Theatre for a New Audience has outdone itself with its present production of William Shakespeare’s Henry IV.  This adaptation, by Dakin Matthews, combines parts one and two into one three and one-half hour production (with two intermissions).  Director Eric Tucker has gathered an amazing cast.  They work as a consistent, tight ensemble and all deliver stunning performances.   

King Henry IV (played by Dakin Matthews) is facing a conflict in his sovereignty.  A rebel faction is seeking to overthrow his reign, and place Henry Percy, known as Hotspur (played by James Udom) on the throne.  King Henry’s heir, Prince Hal (played by Elijah Jones) has turned his back on his royal duties.  He enjoys his time in the pubs, galivanting around London with a motley crew of friends, led by Sir John Falstaff (played by Jay O. Sanders).  When the King summons Hal back to the palace for a meeting, he reluctantly obeys.  Falstaff and his crew follow to keep an eye on their friend.  Hal is obligated to support the King in battle, and fights until the rebel faction is defeated and Hotspur is killed.  Upon his father’s deathbed, Prince Hal professes his loyalty and commitment to the crown.  When Hal is crowned King Henry V, he turns his back on his old life, rejecting Falstaff, who was expecting a position in court. 

Elijah Jones & Jay O. Sanders
Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

Jay O. Sanders delivers a boisterous Falstaff, full of bluster and humor.  His portrayal is just right for this in the round staging.  Elijah Jones is open and genuine as Prince Hal.  He is always one step ahead of Falstaff.  They have a natural camaraderie.  This makes Prince Hal’s rejection of Falstaff acutely hurtful after his royal transformation.  Dakin Matthews is regal as King Henry IV.  His command is firm, and he reveals many layers in his relationship with his son.  

Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

The double and triple casting allows for instantaneous transitions from the streets of London to the Royal Court.  Steven Epp is outstanding as the Earl of Worcester, Francis, and Silence.  These roles are astoundingly different, allowing Mr. Epp to show off his comic timing, physical dexterity, and dramatic intensity.  James Udom also shows a range of skills in his portrayal of Hotspur and Pistol.  His Hotspur is focused and determined, while his Pistol is mischievous and silly.

Henry IV is playing at Theatre for a New Audience’s Polonsky Shakespeare Center though March 2.  It is a strong and slick rendition of this Shakespeare history tale, skillfully directed and majestically performed. 

Domenick Danza

Henry IV

Folger Theatre

Folger Shakespeare Library

Washington DC

September 28, 2019

Photo courtesy of Folger Theatre

The Folger Theatre production of Henry IV (Part 1) is packed with merriment, celebration, and honor.  In one of the final scenes the character of Falstaff humorously tells us that “the better part of valor is discretion,” yet the action of the play illustrates a more serious and noble theme.  Director Rosa Hoshi keeps the lighthearted scenes genuine, while sustaining the danger and risk of the rebels seeking the crown.  The performance culminates in scenes of battle that are choreographed with precision and build quickly from one moment to the next.

Avery Whitted & Peter Cook
Photo courtesy of Folger Theatre

King Henry IV (payed by Peter Crook) is in dispute with his once ally Hotspur (played by Tyler Fauntleroy), who decides to rally Worchester (played by Naomi Jacobson) and Northumberland (played by U. Jonathan Toppo) to rebellion.  They rise up against the King’s army.  The King summons his son, Prince Hal (played by Avery Whitted) to return to duty.  Hal has spent his youth carousing in taverns and befriending Falstaff (played by Edward Gero), who mischievously influences his behavior.  Their bond is strong and gives Hal the excuse to continually chose irresponsibly.  When summoned by his father, Hal needs face his fate and make a life altering decision.

Edward Gero & Avery Whitted
Photo courtesy of Folger Theatre

The ensemble cast plays numerous roles and keeps the action moving at a brisk pace.  Peter Crook is commanding as King Henry IV.  Tyler Fauntleroy’s Hotspur is passionately driven.  He lights a fire under the characters who he leads into rebellion and never loses his conviction.  Avery Whitted portrays Prince Hal with youthful energy and a strong sense of integrity.  His character’s honor and morality are never compromised.  Edward Gero is warm and genuine as Falstaff.  He does not take anything too far over the top, so we can see why Prince Hal follows and admires him.  Their relationship is truthful and sincere.

Henry IV (Part I) is playing at Folger Theatre in Washington DC through October 13.  It is a powerful and bold production.  If you see a performance at Folger’s Theatre, be sure to sign up for the Folger Library tour.  It is free and truly remarkable.   

Domenick Danza