Shakespeare fans are in for a treat as the Bristol venue devotes seven weeks to two of his epic plays - Henry IV parts I and II.
 

Gerard Murphy as Falstaff and Jamie Bamber
as young Prince Hal

 

A company of 16 actors will play more than 60 roles in the two productions, which can be seen together, on their own, or, on four occasions - for the more devoted and adventurous fan - back-to-back on the same day!

Parts I and II are both complete stories in their own right, blockbuster plays featuring rebels and revolutionaries fighting passionate battles for the soul of the nation.

Put together, they combine to become what the Old Vic promises to be "one of the most ambitious and exciting events in British theatre this year".

The Story

The plays tell the story of King Henry, who is fighting to keep his nation together in the face of an uprising in the north.

As the rebel leader Hotspur marshals his forces, Henry looks to his son Prince Hal to fulfill his patriotic duty and ride into battle in defense of the crown.

But one man exerts greater influence over Hal than even his father - the lovable rogue, Sir John Falstaff, a no-good knight of the shires and professional carouser, for whom the life of Riley means more than the love of his country.

When Welsh revolutionary Glendower joins forces with Hotspur, the shadows of war draw closer.

And, with Henry IV looking to his son and heir to save the nation, it is time for Hal to face up to his destiny.

The Cast

To play the roles, Bristol Old Vic has recruited some of the finest Shakespearean actors in Britain.

The cast includes Royal Shakespeare Company stalwart Gerard Murphy as Falstaff, and regular Kenneth Branagh collaborator Jimmy Yuill, who most recently played Hastings to Branagh’s Richard III at Sheffield.

The part of young Prince Hal is played by Hornblower star Jamie Bamber, making his debut with the Bristol Old Vic company.

Henry IV Parts I and II are at the Old Vic from October 11th - November 30th.