Henry V follows the young and newly crowned King Henry V of England as he seeks to prove himself a strong and legitimate ruler. The play begins with Henry’s claim to the French throne, based on ancestral ties, which the French reject. Insulted by the French Dauphin’s mocking gift of tennis balls, Henry launches a military campaign against France.
The central action is the Battle of Agincourt, where Henry, despite being outnumbered and exhausted, delivers the famous St. Crispin’s Day speech to inspire his troops. Against the odds, the English win a decisive victory. Henry’s leadership, courage and political skill are key themes, as are nationalism, honor and the burdens of kingship.
Courage. Loyalty. Power. This summer, Henry V marches into Carroll Park in a vivid new production from Smith Street Stage. Directed by Jonathan Hopkins and featuring a female actor, McLean Peterson, in the title role, this production asks what it truly means to lead—and what it costs to win.
