Regent University’s production of Henry V, which ran February 14–16 and February 20–22, offered a distinctive interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic play. This version explored Henry’s triumphs and failures, his Christian convictions, his relationships, and the defining moments that shaped his life. By re-imagining these elements with a modern framing and a dynamic cast, the production highlighted both the humanity of Henry and the timelessness of his story. The production frames the story as a modern archaeological dig, where a group of archaeologists uncovers an old crown believed to have belonged to Henry V. As they examine the artifact, they begin discussing Henry’s life. One enthusiastic team member, Cora, passionately urges the group to reenact scenes from the play to bring the history to life. They agree but struggle to decide who should play Henry. They eventually decide to have each actor portray him in different scenes, each offering a unique take and allowing the audience to see multiple facets of Henry’s character throughout the play. The story first follows Henry as he prepares for war and clashes politically with France over his claim to the French throne. Even at home there is conflict, as his rule and life are threatened by several English nobles who plot to assassinate him. Henry ventures undercover, discovers the treachery, and swiftly puts an end to their conspiracy. Later, Henry disguises himself as a common soldier among his own troops on the eve of the Battle of Agincourt. He tries to encourage and connect with them as an equal brother facing the same impossible odds. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the English win a miraculous victory. Peace negotiations follow, and Henry is ultimately offered the hand of Princess Katherine of France, symbolizing unity between the two nations.

Throughout the play, Henry is portrayed as a complex character who struggles with external and internal forces. Though an older story, it has themes of trust in God, responsibility, leadership, brotherhood, and identity. “Henry isn’t perfect, but he is nuanced. He has humanity. He cares about the people he leads and wants to understand their experiences,” says Trinity Treadway, who plays Cora, the narrator. The aspect of having multiple actors play the lead was inspired by the line “Into a thousand parts divide one man.” John Gorre, who portrays John Johnson in the intro, Bardolph, Duke Westmoreland, Henry, and the Duke of Burgundy, explains: “Each of us builds a ‘brick’ of Henry. We have to honor what the previous Henry created and set up the next Henry.” He also describes working to make his multiple characters “distinct through voice and especially body language.” Trinity comments on her acting experience and the work she put in to capture her character. “As the narrator, I’ve really enjoyed connecting with the audience. The eye contact is so special, because you don’t get to do that in a lot of other roles…It’s very intimate.” She explains the research necessary to properly embody her role, and how that very research helped her get into character. By blending historical depth with modern creativity, the production honored Shakespeare’s original work while making it accessible and engaging for today’s audiences: “not just a stale history lesson,” but a compelling, actionoriented play that brings the history alive. To learn more about upcoming productions from Regent University and purchase tickets for the upcoming main-stage musical Hello, Dolly!, please visit the Theater Season page at the Regent University Performing Arts Center website.