THE RSC RETURNS TO THE BARBICAN WITH HENRY IV IN TWO PLAYS

The highly acclaimed Henry IV plays once again returns to London's Barbican starring Antony Sher. The creator of the five-star production Richard II, RSC Artistic Director Gregory Doran continues to explore Shakespeare's "history" plays at the Barbican with Henry IV Parts I and II, which portray an epic, comic and thrilling vision of a nation in turmoil.

WHAT IS HENRY IV PART ONE ABOUT?

With his crown under threat from both foreign and domestic enemies, Henry IV is getting ready to defend his right to the throne. As preparations for war draw closer, Henry despairs that his son, Prince Hal (the Prince of Wales and future heir to the throne) is spending his time carousing and merry-making in London's Eastcheap brothels with his best friend, the libertine Sir John Falstaff (Sher). With the onset of war, Henry is desperate to ensure that Hal is ready confront his responsibilities to family and throne. But is Hal's irresponsible behaviour in the taverns the sign of an unruly ne'er do well - or is it all an act to dispense with when he becomes king?

An excellent way to introduce the history plays to new audiences as well as a treat for dyed in the wool Bard afficianados. And with the recent resurgence in all things Tudor, given Benedict Cumberbatch as Hamlet, and Hilary Mantel's double-bill of plays last year (as well as the TV drama series, Wolf Hall), this is an opportunity to immerse yourself in our turbulent histories.

To see Henry IV Part Two, click on the link!