USING the well thought out device of having the play performed as if by sailors of the 1805 Navy, Chris Blatch-Gainey’s pacey and well-disciplined production of Shakespeare’s most celebrated play about war focused on Henry’s victory at the battle of Agincourt and the aftermath.
Declaiming the inspiring St Crispin’s Day speech from high on the decks of Nelson’s flagship, Joseph Allen brought great maturity and dignity to the demanding central role, leading his men into battle one minute and flirting with the French princess (a pert Laura Woodward) the next.
Great support, too, from Tim Stokes as his uncle Exeter, Peter Trott as Canterbury, and Randy Vince as the defeated French King.
Agincourt was fiercely fought across a Les Miserables-style barricade by an enthusiastic 30-strong cast, backed by thunderous sound effects and stirring music, and the company’s rendition of Hearts Of Oak finally brought this thoroughly absorbing production to a rousingly patriotic conclusion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here