Theater: The Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center / 3940 Broadway, New York, NY, 10032
Under the direction of Jenny Bennett, OBIE award-winner Ty Jones stars in the title role in this world premiere production of Henry V. One of Shakespeare's great history plays, Henry V examines the burdensome expectations that befall a young king who must not only live down his adolescent follies, but also inspire his fellow Englishman to follow him into war with France. The Classical Theatre of Harlem's interpretation brings to light the brutally thoughtful and biting humor of King Henry V's confrontational diplomacy. In a powerful exploration of what it means to be king, director Bennett dissects the warmongering tendencies of humanity as one man attempts to win the hearts of all.
August 17, 2011: At the beginning of the Classical Theater of Harlem’s “Henry V” actors who have been milling around and chatting with audience members slowly start to leave the casual and the quotidian behind. Someone beats out time with sticks. A chant begins, an eerie invocation: “O, for a muse of fire” — the first words of this Shakespeare play.
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