Join us as we present an intimate evening of theater featuring Shakespeare’s “HENRY V” adapted and directed by Gil Ron.

FEATURING Stephen Anthony, Michael Billingsley, Jeremy Brena, Gary Chung, Ivette Dumeng, Johnny Maldonado, Liam Kyle McGowan, Tomike Ogugua, Delissa Reynolds, Gil Ron, Jack Wernick, and Christopher Whalen with Sound Design by Pat Cahue.

RUNNING TIME 90 mins

Followed by a brief Audience Talk-Back with the Director & Cast.

Director`s note

"War!, What is it good for, absolutely nothing!... Say It Again, War!, What is it good for, absolutely nothing!... Say it Again."~ Edwin Starr

William Shakespeare’s historical play, “Henry V,” is renowned for its exploration of leadership, patriotism, and the moral complexities of war. While it is commonly perceived as a glorification of war and a celebration of the triumph of the English over the French at the Battle of Agincourt, a closer analysis reveals subtle anti-war sentiments woven into the narrative. Through the character of King Henry V and the broader context of the play, Shakespeare subtly questions the morality and futility of war.

One of the primary anti-war aspects of “Henry V” is the portrayal of the human cost of conflict. Shakespeare emphasizes the toll war takes on soldiers and civilians alike. The famous St. Crispin’s Day speech, delivered by Henry on the eve of the Battle of Agincourt, may inspire patriotism, but it also underscores the harsh realities of war. The king acknowledges the hardships and sacrifices faced by those who fight, presenting war not as a glorious endeavor, but as a brutal and arduous ordeal.

Shakespeare introduces doubt and moral conflict into the character of King Henry himself, revealing the internal struggles of a leader burdened by the consequences of war. In Act 4, Scene 1, Henry walks among his soldiers in disguise, engaging in a poignant conversation about the morality of the king’s decisions. This scene serves as a reflection on the ethical dilemmas faced by leaders in times of war, challenging the notion that military victories are always righteous and just.

While “Henry V” is often considered a patriotic play, Shakespeare introduces ambiguity into the concept of nationalism. The chorus frames Henry’s campaign in France as a glorious and heroic quest, but the play itself raises questions about the legitimacy of the English claim to the French throne. The machinations of the church are unveiled through the speech delivered by the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, in Act 1, Scene 2, based on a political document that complicates the narrative of a just and honorable war, highlighting the often murky motivations behind conflicts.

Shakespeare does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of conquest and occupation. The siege of Harfleur and the subsequent suffering of the town’s inhabitants reveal the brutal consequences of war on civilians. The portrayal of war’s impact on ordinary people serves as a stark reminder that the glory of victory comes at a tremendous cost to human lives and well-being.

In conclusion, while “Henry V” is commonly perceived as a patriotic and pro-war play, Shakespeare subtly incorporates anti-war sentiments throughout the narrative. Through the human cost of war, the moral struggles of the protagonist, the ambiguity of nationalism, and the depiction of the harsh realities of conquest, the playwright invites audiences to question the morality and necessity of armed conflict. “Henry V” serves as a nuanced exploration of war’s complexities, urging viewers to consider the profound and often tragic consequences of military actions.

East 3rd productions

Ricardo Riethmuller, Artistic Director

Francisco Solorzano, Creative Director

Time: 7:30 — 9:00 pm EST

Free!

Registration