HENRY IV REACHES A HEARTBREAKING CONCLUSION

The highly acclaimed Henry IV plays finally reach London following their world premieres in Stratford-upon-Avon and the UK tour that followed afterwards. The creators of the five-star production Richard II, RSC Artistic Director Gregory Doran continue 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. Part II carries on where we left off, with Hal facing the imminent death of his father, and the prospect of choosing between his royal duty and loyalty to a corrupt Falstaff.

WHAT IS HENRY IV PART II ABOUT?

The King's health is failing but he still remains concerned that his son Prince Hal isn't up to the task of inheriting the throne. Meanwhile, Hal's hell-raising friend Sir John Falstaff has been to the countryside to recruit fresh troops for Henry's cause - only he is more concerned with lining his pockets with the King's gold. Hal is faced with a difficult choice as his father's health continues on a downward spiral; he must choose between duty to the English throne and loyalty to his old friend. Shakespeare's epic conclusion proves heartbreaking for Hal.