Apricity Theatre continues to blaze a trail for exciting adaptions of Shakespeare classics.

Photo © Joe Samuels
Bringing a twist and a modern approach to Henry V, Apricity work hard to create an energetic and committed production that breathes new life into the text.
Henry V was written in 1599; it details the glory of English victories in far off lands. During the time of writing, England was at war with Ireland and young men were being sent to battle with high loss of life.
Shakespeare began to reflect the disenchantment with war, the lack of glory and the voice of the people.
Henry is often portrayed as the typical gallant hero however, at the end of the play there is a very different, difficult tone whilst he attempts to charms Katherine to achieve peace.
The disillusionment is strengthened by the nature of performance. The cast are excellent and multi-role with ease.
Kian Pollard as Henry V is a strong, dynamic central character. A great presence whose final scenes reflect a manipulative and unpleasant man, the society that Shakespeare was writing for is now in stark contrast to ours.
Whilst it is difficult to define individuals there is a glorious ease to Matilda Dickinson from the outset, her direct address reflecting a winning personality.
Having updated the setting to present day, the key themes are as salient as ever.
The voices of the underrepresented have rarely been more powerful. The direction is slick and the stage combat is fiercely convincing.
This is a fine example of a continually excellent company experimenting with new ideas.
The fact that they are Bath grown is a reason to be proud; however I am sure their continued touring and audience reach will only reinforce their growing reputation it the region and beyond.
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Reviewer: Petra Schofield
The Breach, adapted by Charlotte Turner–McMullan, was performed at the Rondo Theatre in Bath on Friday 28th and Saturday 29th June 2019.