Production from Stratford-Upon-Avon makes big-screen debut at Mary D. Fisher Theatre
Sedona AZ (June 28, 2014) – The Royal Shakespeare Company’s thrilling conclusion of “Henry IV – Part 2” makes its Sedona big-screen debut on Sunday, July 13. The Sedona International Film Festival hosts the high-definition premiere of William Shakespeare’s renowned play from its home in Stratford-Upon-Avon. There will be one show at 4 p.m. at the festival’s Mary D. Fisher Theatre.
“Henry IV – Part 2” is the third play in the histories covering the reigns of Richard II, Henry IV and Henry V. In this play, Shakespeare explores loyalty, betrayal and growing old. Jasper Britton stars in the title role alongside Alex Hassell (Prince Hal) and Antony Sher (Sir John Falstaff) in this conclusion directed by Gregory Doran.
“Henry IV – Part 2” begins in the aftermath of the battle in Shrewsbury. In despair at the death of his son Hotspur, the Earl of Northumberland pledges to lend his support to a second rebellion. This uprising is led by Richard Scroop who is the Archbishop of York.
As the threat of civil war looms over the country King Henry IV becomes increasingly unwell. He also fears that his son Prince Henry has returned to his old life with Falstaff and the other disreputable denizens of the Eastcheap tavern.
The Chief Justice confronts Falstaff (who is also in bad health) with reports of his criminal behaviour. He warns him that Hal will be kept separate from him because the king is unhappy with the influence he has had on the prince.
Falstaff is sent on a recruiting expedition in support of King Henry’s army. This force is being led by Prince John of Lancaster (the king’s younger son) this time. But before he can set off he must face a court in the company of Mistress Quickly for his debts to her and for services rendered at her tavern.
The rebel army is met by the king’s forces who are led by Prince John and bolstered by Falstaff’s recruits. A treaty is brokered but is followed by betrayal.
King Henry wakes to find his son, Hal, trying on his crown. The dying king is angry at first but is reconciled with his son before he dies. A new, mature Hal accepts the crown as King Henry V and turns his attention to a war with France. His old friend Falstaff finds himself excluded from the new king’s court and company.
“Henry IV – Part 2” will be shown at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre on Sunday, July 13 at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $15, or $12.50 for Film Festival members. Tickets are available in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office or by calling 928-282-1177. Both the theatre and film festival office are located at 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, in West Sedona. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.org.
