Celebrating 35 years of trailblazing theatre, Bell Shakespeare kicks off its anniversary season in 2025 with a fresh, thought-provoking staging of Henry 5.
The production promises to be a theatrical highlight, blending the timeless work of Shakespeare with a strikingly contemporary lens. Directed by the esteemed Marion Potts, this ambitious interpretation runs at the Sydney Opera House from 1 March – 5 April, Canberra Theatre Centre from 10 – 20 April, and wraps up at the Arts Centre Melbourne from 11 – 25 May.
A Bold New Director Returns
Returning to Bell Shakespeare after a 15-year hiatus, Marion Potts brings her seasoned vision and a female perspective to this classic history play. Known for her nuanced reinterpretations of works like Othello and Hamlet, Potts repositions Henry 5 to probe the murky complexities of war, bravery, and leadership.
Set against the backdrop of Prince Hal’s transformation into King Henry V, the tale unfolds as England is thrust into war with France following a scathing insult by the French prince. The young king, hailed as a hero for his improbable victory at the Battle of Agincourt, is at the play’s centre. However, Potts promises a production that digs deeper, revealing the human cost of conflict and examining the pressures of masculinity and heroism.
Speaking about the production, Potts said: “Henry 5 is so rich that it resonates differently for audiences across time. Our production firmly places the play in today’s world, unpacking ideas of conflict, fairness and compassion. With young men inheriting strong expectations around masculinity, I’m fascinated by the humanity of the play—where characters grapple with the very best and very worst of human choices.”
A Stellar Cast of Fresh Talent
The heart of this new Henry 5 lies in its diverse cast, spearheaded by dynamic newcomer JK Kazzi making his highly anticipated mainstage debut as Henry. Known for his commanding stage presence, Kazzi is set to bring fresh energy and depth to Shakespeare’s iconic warrior king.
Joining him is a vibrant ensemble of debutants, including Jack Halabi (as the Dauphin) and Alex Kirwan (Westmoreland), alongside seasoned performers such as Odile le Clézio (Alice), Ava Madon (Katherine), Ella Prince (Exeter), Mararo Wangai (Montjoy), and Jo Turner (King of France). Together, this cast promises to inject both freshness and authenticity into Shakespeare’s tale of leadership and legacy.
An Outstanding Creative Team
Guiding the production’s bold vision is an extraordinary creative team. Anna Tregloan leads the set and costume design, capturing the blending of Shakespeare’s timeless world with today’s culture. Jethro Woodward (Composer and Sound Designer) will weave music and soundscapes that underscore the emotional highs and lows of the narrative, while Verity Hampson’s lighting design enhances the drama on stage. The cast’s powerful performances are further refined by Jack Starkey-Gill, the production’s Voice Director.
Timeless Themes for Modern Audiences
Exploring themes of heroism, leadership, and the human costs of war, Henry 5 feels as relevant in 2025 as it did in Shakespeare’s day. Potts’ direction invites audiences to consider how we define bravery, address conflict, and challenge widely accepted narratives of heroism—issues that resonate profoundly in today’s divided world.
Performance Details
Where to Experience Henry 5:
- Sydney Opera House
1 March – 5 April 2025 - Canberra Theatre Centre
10 – 20 April 2025 - Arts Centre Melbourne
11 – 25 May 2025
For those who relish the timeless works of Shakespeare reimagined through a modern lens, Bell Shakespeare’s Henry 5 looks set to be an unmissable experience. This production marks not only the start of a celebratory 35th season but also another artistic leap forward for one of Australia’s most iconic theatre companies.
Book your tickets today and prepare to be immersed in a fresh, intelligent retelling of Shakespeare’s exploration of power, conflict, and humanity.
For bookings and more information, visit bellshakespeare.com.au