Review by Russell Blackaller.

HENRY V.
Royal Shakespeare Company.
Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford upon Avon.
Box Office 0844 800 1110.

I DIDN’T realise there was so much humour in Shakespeare’s Henry V.

Gregory Doran’s production of this great play for the RSC manages to switch seamlessly between the comic and the serious.

The show also moves with great flow, between the scenes, helped because, in true Shakespearian style, the stage is bare throughout. 

The simplicity of the staging requires you to work your imagination, and translate the words into a real battle field in your mind. 

Being a purist, I wish Stephen Brimson Lewis’s design had been even more stark, as his abstract backdrops distracted me. They are, however beautifully atmospheric.

This accomplished production moves at a great pace, whilst remaining clear to follow throughout. 
Alex Hassell, who plays Henry, is much more than his good looks. 

His gravitas is captivating and his delivery meticulous. He exudes strength and leadership, without going over the top, avoiding an eccentric interpretation, often expected of Shakespeare’s kings. 

Equally captivating, beyond her stunning looks, is Jennifer Kirby who creates a mesmerising and hilarious Katherine. 

I was not so taken with the veteran actor, Oliver Ford Davies, who plays the Chorus role in an old school style, rarely seen these days at the RSC. 
Despite this, I would still rate the show as one of the RSC’s best productions for some time.

9 out of 10.
 

  • Henry V runs in Stratford until October 25 2015