The Fourth Walsh

Chicago Shakespeare Theater presents HENRY V.    

Playwright William Shakespeare penned the tale of the young King of England invading France. He wrote of the motivations, negotiations, and ramifications of war. His depiction is a history lesson of the Battle Agincourt during the Hundred Years’ War. Shakespeare utilized a multitude of characters, nobles and commoners, for the play. Knowing the story is extensive and a theatre stage is limited, The Bard used a narrator and chorus to continually encourage the audience to use their imagination to visualize the expansive nature of war. In this Chicago Shakes’ production, the audience’s imagination is less necessary. Director Edward Hall masterfully orchestrates the camaraderie and chaos of an epic siege.

Hall, in conjunction with his design team (Michael Pavelka-scenic and costume, Marcus Doshi-lighting, Emily Hayman-scenic, Rachel Flesher-fight and intimacy), create battle-style havoc. Hall paces this with a true sense of urgency. This fierce ensemble don’t merely exit the stage, they run quickly in the dark through the aisles with heart-pounding intention. It’s not a bloody, gore fest. Instead, the explosive nature of combat is illustrated very effectively in swift, elegant, movements. Lights flash. Haze encircles. Battle cries. And executions are gracefully synchronized on industrial scaffolding.

Under Hall’s inventive direction, the story almost is usurped by the telling of it. He employs Jon Trenchard (music direction, arrangements, original music) to give his war an upbeat soundtrack. Trenchard mixes it up to amplify the moment with beautiful vocal harmonies or wailing guitars. The talented ensemble drop their weapons and pick up instruments to exhibit being a true band of brothers (and sisters – the casting is nongender specific).

In the lead, Elijah Jones (Henry) is in command of his troops and the show. Jones displays incredible range. He vulnerably ponders betrayal with a flicker of inexperienced hesitation. Jones rallies the army with a strong, inspirational St.Crispin’s Day Speech. And later, he awkwardly and playfully pledges his love to his betrothed by conquest. Jones’ portrayal is testosterone-driven competitive for land and lover. The target of his affections is Courtney Rikki Green (Katherine).

Green plays dual roles as a spunky young lad and cultured princess. As Green grapples with her fate, she and Kate Fry (Alice) have an amusing exchange entirely spoken in French.The always terrific Fry uses precision timing and facial gestures to reinforce the humor or the drama in her multiple roles. Many of the ensemble double or triple often playing for both sides. These badass warriors give it their all as they go to war. And nod out to the charismatic and versatile Jaylon Muchison who continually surprises. Whether it’s descending from the rafters, playing the sax or producing a concealed instrument, his appearance captivates.        

HENRY V may sound like Shakespeare circa 1599. Yet, this HENRY V looks and definitely feels like a contemporary reincarnation circa 2024. This war is one you’ll want to experience!

Running Time: Two hours and forty-five minutes includes an intermission

At Chicago Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier

Written by William Shakespeare

Directed by Edward Hall

Performances are:

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 7pm

Wednesdays at 1pm

Saturdays, Sundays at 2pm

Thru October 6

For more information or tickets

Photography by Liz Lauren

For more Chicago theatre information and reviews, please visit Theatre in Chicago