HENRY V

Henry V was indeed a tour de force for TADS – I was impressed with the standard of performance, and the ease with which the Shakespearean words tripped off the actors tongues.

The setting in the round was well-accomplished, with the cast playing equally to the audience on both sides. 

The setting was very simple – the scene changes were effected by cast members simply moving a few chairs or re-aligning the steps at the side of the rostra on each side of the stage – thus keeping the continuing feel of the piece throughout. 

The lighting was crucial, as it created the different atmospheres for each scene, and that along with the music and sound effects were instrumental in giving us the contrasts and dimensions needed to keep our interest, everything was played at a good pace.

I liked the opening sequence – linking the WW2 family and their son joining up, with Henry V and the character simply entitled The Boy - the links between that and various writings somehow made it all the more relevant. 

I thought the whole cast gave good performances, some more notable than others, but of course Peter Carter-Brown in the principal role of Henry, gave us his usual well-studied and three dimensional performance.  Peter knows how to pitch a speech, and is not afraid to take the level down to quiet contemplation, without losing any of the meaning or intention.  An excellent portrayal.

Lea Pryer took on three different roles, all of which were accomplished well, showing what a versatile actress she is.  The emotion from Hostess Quickly was very poignant, then the transformation into Princess Catherine, and her superb handling of the French words.  The scene between Catherine and Alice her maid, was very amusing, a little light relief amongst the seriousness of the play.

Alistair Brown gave us a regal King of France, showing confusion over what was happening, but strength in his responses.  Alistair always gives his characters depth.

Ian Cossey was kept busy, with a number of parts, all of which were played with understanding, but I particularly liked his Edward Cavendish in the opening sequence.

Helen Huson was another cast member with several diverse roles, her Archbishop of Canterbury was my favourite, although she brought something different to each role and has a presence that lends itself well to Shakespeare.

Chris Battams and Joe Hawkins are two young men who brought much to their roles, and I liked their portrayals.

Luke Firth in his first production with TADS worked well with his roles.

Luke Howard as the Duke of Bourbon gave us good characterisation, and Steven Pryer showed many and different facets to Pistol – both showing understanding of their roles.

I liked the relationship and interaction between Pistol, Nym (Ian Cossey) and Bates (Andrew Naish) – it created a common touch to compare with the high-born Dukes and royalty. Harry Rodgers impressed as The Boy, he is increasing his performance skills with every performance, and this type of production is an excellent grounding for him. 

Sophie Venn, was an arresting French Ambassador, and an accomplished Duke of Orleans.

I liked David Sachon’s portrayal of The Duke of Exeter – he was forceful when needed, and also gave the part a contrasting more understanding side.

Maureen Linney and Malcolm Steven as Westmoreland and Erpingham respectively, both kept their personas going the whole time, and added some weight and depth to the proceedings.

Janet Bray gave two contrasting performances, as Fluellen and Alice, both good accents – nicely done on both counts.

The show was well-costumed throughout, with splashes of colour introduced, which made it a good looking show, with armour, and swords flashing – very impressive.

Henry’s ‘Once more into the breech’ speech was particularly moving and inspiring.

I loved the finale, and also the closing sequence – very evocative and a fitting end to an excellent evening’s entertainment.

My thanks go once again to TADS for their hospitality, and a super production, which although long, was enthralling and well-acted.

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