In an era when global headlines are dominated by the brutal realities of conflict—from the ongoing devastation in Ukraine to escalating tensions in the Middle East—few works of literature capture the seductive thrill and devastating cost of war quite like William Shakespeare’s Henry V. The play’s rousing cries of “Once more unto the breach” and “We few, we happy few, we band of brothers” have inspired generations, yet beneath the heroism lies a profound questioning of leadership, nationalism, and the human price of ambition. Enter Henry V Chicago: the 2024 production at Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) on Navy Pier, directed by the company’s new Artistic Director Edward Hall. Running from September 6 to October 6, 2024, this gripping revival reimagines Shakespeare’s history play with contemporary urgency, immersive staging, and unflinching intensity, reminding us why the Bard remains essential reading—and viewing—in our turbulent times.
Whether you’re a longtime Shakespeare enthusiast revisiting the Henriad, a student analyzing themes of power and war, a theater lover who caught (or missed) this Navy Pier run, or simply someone grappling with what makes a leader effective in crisis, this in-depth exploration offers more than a standard review. It delves into the production’s innovative choices, standout performances, and timeless insights, providing the comprehensive analysis and context that elevates understanding far beyond surface-level summaries.
Overview of the 2024 Chicago Shakespeare Theater Production
Edward Hall’s Henry V marked a bold debut for the acclaimed British director in his new role at CST. Following his celebrated 2023 staging of Richard III at the theater, Hall brought his signature approach: treating Shakespeare as a living, modern playwright whose words speak directly to contemporary audiences. The production unfolded in the Courtyard Theater, utilizing the space’s intimacy and flexibility for fluid, immersive action that spilled into aisles and surrounded viewers in the chaos of battle.
Key design elements amplified this vision. Lighting designer Marcus Doshi created stark, atmospheric effects—harsh strobes during combat sequences and misty hazes evoking the fog of war—while fight choreographer Rachel Flesher orchestrated visceral, realistic clashes that emphasized brutality over glorification. Costumes blended modern and period influences: English soldiers in camouflage-like greys, the Chorus as a ragged, punk-inspired ensemble (complete with a raucous rendition of The Clash’s “London Calling” to open), and French nobility in elegant yet detached finery. This contemporary lens, combined with an ensemble-driven approach, underscored Hall’s belief in the “game of make-believe,” where the audience’s imagination completes the spectacle.
The run drew strong notices for its energy and relevance. Critics praised its “fierce” and “riveting” quality (Chicago Theatre Review), while noting the production’s exploration of nationalism’s double-edged sword—binding people together yet fueling destruction.
The Timeless Appeal of Shakespeare’s Henry V
At its core, Henry V (written around 1599) chronicles the transformation of Prince Hal—once the wayward youth of Henry IV Parts 1 and 2—into the resolute King Henry V. After inheriting a fractious kingdom, Henry launches an invasion of France, claiming ancient rights to the throne. The play follows his campaign through key battles (Harfleur, Agincourt), personal doubts, and diplomatic maneuvers, culminating in victory and a politically advantageous marriage to Princess Katherine.
Shakespeare drew from historical sources like Raphael Holinshed’s Chronicles, portraying the real 1415 Agincourt campaign where an outnumbered English force triumphed over the French. Yet the playwright infuses this with dramatic tension: Henry’s stirring rhetoric rallies troops, but soliloquies reveal his isolation, guilt over past sins, and awareness of war’s toll on common soldiers.
What makes Henry V endure is its ambivalence. It delivers patriotic spectacle—Henry’s speeches have been quoted by leaders from Winston Churchill to modern commanders—yet subtly critiques jingoism, hubris, and the manipulation of language. As Hall noted in his director’s notes, the play examines “the excitement—and the danger—of nationalism,” portraying a young leader who inspires loyalty while pursuing optional war for personal and political gain.
Key Themes Explored in Depth
Leadership and Transformation Henry’s arc from inexperienced monarch to decisive commander fascinates. Hall emphasized Henry’s “streetwise” youth and growth through combat, showing a leader who roots out betrayal early and earns respect on the battlefield. Elijah Jones’s portrayal captured this evolution: tentative at first, then commanding, with moments of vulnerability revealing the loneliness of power.
The Thrill and Horror of War The production balanced exhilaration (camaraderie, victory) with horror (senseless death, suffering). Hall’s staging highlighted the latter—bloody fights, weary soldiers—echoing modern wars. Reviews noted parallels to Ukraine and the Middle East, where underdog forces fight against overwhelming odds, yet at immense human cost.
Nationalism and Propaganda Language as a weapon shines in Henry’s oratory. Hall’s direction probed how stirring words can mask ambition or justify aggression. The Chorus’s punk energy and ensemble shifts from rebels to warriors illustrated nationalism’s binding yet destructive force.
Honor, Duty, and Sacrifice Soldiers grapple with what “proving your worth” means. Henry’s disguise among troops reveals ordinary men’s fears, contrasting royal rhetoric with ground-level reality.
Standout Performances and Ensemble Excellence
Elijah Jones, in his CST debut, commanded the title role with charisma and nuance. Critics lauded his “powerful voice” and “incredible range”—from fiery speeches to quiet doubts—making Henry both inspiring and troubling. Jones portrayed a king who connects with soldiers yet remains apart, weeping for friends while ordering executions.
The ensemble excelled in multi-roling: Kate Fry (Westmoreland, Alice), Sean Fortunato (King of France, York), Ronald L. Conner (Bardolph, Orleans), Scott Aiello (Nym, Williams), and others brought depth to commoners, nobles, and clerics. Their versatility highlighted Shakespeare’s focus on the “band of brothers”—ordinary people caught in extraordinary events.
The Chorus, functioning as narrators and soldiers, embraced meta-theatricality, pulling audiences into the “game of make-believe.”
Edward Hall’s Directorial Vision and Modern Reimagining
Hall views Shakespeare as “a modern writer,” using the text to interrogate power today. His notes highlight Henry’s inexperience yet decisiveness, and nationalism’s perils. The production avoided romanticized heroism, emphasizing war’s chaos and leaders’ hubris (e.g., Henry’s reaction to tennis balls as petty ego).
Compared to past versions—like Laurence Olivier’s 1944 patriotic film or Kenneth Branagh’s 1989 gritty take—Hall’s leaned anti-war, with overstuffed battles (per some critics) underscoring repetition and futility.
Iconic Scenes and Speeches Reexamined in This Production
The Tennis Balls Scene Henry’s witty rebuke to the Dauphin’s insult sparks war—Jones delivered it with controlled fury, showing calculated resolve.
Once More Unto the Breach Immersive staging amplified motivation, troops charging aisles.
St. Crispin’s Day Speech The emotional peak: Jones’s delivery stirred, yet Hall’s context (war-weary army) added layers of desperation.
French Scenes and Wooing of Katherine Comic relief contrasted tension, with Courtney Rikki Green as Katherine adding charm.
Shakespeare’s poetry—delivered clearly—gained power through movement and design.
Critical Reception and What Audiences Are Saying
Reviews were largely positive: “riveting” (Chicago Theatre Review), “brilliantly staged” (PicksInSix), “muscular, fast-moving” (Nick Digilio). Strengths included ensemble excellence, verse clarity, and timeliness. Some critiqued pacing or repetitive battles (Chicago Reader called it “overstuffed”), but most agreed it provoked thought on leadership and war.
Audiences appreciated the relevance—discussions post-show explored veterans’ experiences and modern parallels.
Why This Production Matters in 2024 and Beyond
Hall’s Henry V arrived amid global instability, offering a mirror to questions of leadership in conflict, nationalism’s allure, and war’s toll. It challenges viewers: Is Henry a hero or aggressor? Does glory justify sacrifice?
For students, it’s rich for essays on ethics, history, literature. Theater fans find inspiration in its energy. Shakespeare’s wisdom endures: power corrupts, language persuades, humanity persists amid chaos.
Practical Tips for Experiencing Henry V (Chicago or Anywhere)
- Adaptations: Kenneth Branagh’s 1989 film (gritty realism); Olivier’s 1944 (patriotic spectacle).
- Reading Guide: Focus on Act 4 soliloquy (Henry’s doubts), St. Crispin’s speech.
- Theatergoing: Note how directors balance heroism/critique; seek immersive productions.
FAQs
What is Henry V about in simple terms? A young king invades France to claim his “rightful” throne, rallying troops with inspiring speeches while facing war’s harsh realities.
Who played Henry in the 2024 Chicago production? Elijah Jones, in a commanding CST debut.
Is this production pro-war or anti-war? It leans anti-war, highlighting horrors and hubris while retaining patriotic moments.
How does Edward Hall’s Henry V differ from traditional stagings? Contemporary design, emphasis on nationalism’s dangers, immersive battles over glorification.
Where can I learn more about Chicago Shakespeare Theater productions? Visit chicagoshakes.com for archives, notes, and upcoming shows.
Edward Hall’s Henry V at Chicago Shakespeare Theater delivered thrilling theater while probing deep questions about power, war, and humanity. Through Elijah Jones’s charismatic lead, a versatile ensemble, and bold direction, it proved Shakespeare’s words still inspire, unsettle, and illuminate our world.
Explore the text, watch adaptations, attend live Shakespeare—reflect on its lessons. In an age of division and conflict, the Bard’s insights into leadership and sacrifice remain urgently relevant.
