Henry has just taken the throne and found himself in a battle for territory: England and France, part of the Hundred Years War. His famous battle was noteworthy in that he was well outnumbered and his army comprised war-weary beggars (including his drinking pal, John Falstaff) and this one notable battle at Agincourt. (Here the famous St. Crispin speech “We few, we happy few, we band of brothers”.)
Nick Hennegan wrote this one-man (woman), tour-de-force production powerfully and masterfully delivered by Kizzy Dunn. Dunn quickly engages the audience and delivers Henry’s history and biography. Wielding capably a hefty broadsword through part of this, she takes us from Henry’s ascension to the throne through the battle giving a little of his following reign. We also get a nice look at Hennegan’s research and evaluation.
It’s a tight script, if a little dry and level at times. Hennegan’s direction is never random or excessive. The music and sound design by Robb Williams and lighting are keenly apace with the monologue if not just a wee bit too-much-of-a-good-thing. When the audience becomes aware of the lighting and sound to the distraction of the production, moderation should be considered.
This is a history lesson. A lesson in playwriting and adaptation. A lesson in acting, directing and production. There will be actors, male and female, lined up to take down Ms. Dunn. (Don’t let them!)