Review: Henry V, Temple Church, Bristol

Insane Root Theatre’s all-female/non binary reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic text sees it combined with original songs from acclaimed composer Ellian Showering, animating the dramatic with conviction and creativity.

Showering’s compositions introduce moments of light relief to the piece and are delivered with enthusiasm and great energy. Aligning this element with the all female/non binary representation of the cast gives the work a modern day, feministic relatability that helps make a serious and historically male dominated Shakespeare play relevant and sassy: there are some definite likenesses to the musical Six at times here.

A strong cameraderie between all members of the company makes for flawless multi-roling and superb characterisation. Charlotte East as ‘red king’ Henry V demonstrates powerful vocal control which exploits the acoustics of the venue to the full. Siobhan Bevan, Meg Lewis, Fowzia Madar, Anabella O’Gorman and Esmee Cook share out the many other characters, bringing them to life with ease in their vocal and physical transitions between characters. The scene between Madar and Cook depicting an English Lesson between Katherine of Valois and her gentlewoman Alice is particularly warm and comical. Fantastic vocal clarity, control and musicianship is also demonstrated by Alice Barclay in the role of the Chorus, who maintains the flow of the story well. Her use of space is particularly impressive, ensuring she is still involved in the narrative even when not required to speak.

Alice Sales’ set design uses the dynamics of the historic venue – a ruined church – to its full potential. There are numerous entrance and exit points to the performance space, allowing for a superb depth of stage and breaking of the fourth wall, with the aisle frequently being used for dramatic entrances and exits up close to the audience. A centrally positioned ramp heightens the moments of tension in the action, whilst the boulders and boxes also offers height contrast, used most creatively by the actors in illustration of their different characters.

The symbolic representation of English and French troops through use of the tennis balls is visually effective, communicating numbers in a clever and thought-provoking manner. Audio and visual effects create distinct atmospheres, whilst at the same time remaining sympathetic to the naturalistic elements of the venue. The accompanying sound effect when balls are dropped into the basket to symbolise the death of a fallen comrade is particularly striking. The charge and battle scene are well executed, with vigorous rope slapping adding smartly to the tension.

Sales’ costume designs additionally contribute to the feminist tone of the production, with historic touches such as corsets being interestingly accompanied by more recognisable modern garments that aid the relatability and contemporary feel of the piece.

This is a dynamic company, giving a novel slant to both a traditional work and an historical venue, and using it to its full potential. Insane Root’s Henry V is definitely a fantastic few hours of entertainment.

Written by: William Shakespeare
Adapted by Natalie Simone, Craig Fuller and the Company
Directed by: Natalie Simone
Musical direction and Composed by: Ellian Showering
Produced by: Justin Palmer for Insane Root Theatre
Sound Design & Production Composition by: Hattie North
Set & Costume Design by: Alice Sales
Costume Supervisor: Susie Pearce
Lighting Design by: Imogen Senter
Movement director: Karla Shacklock

Henry V plays at Temple Church Bristol until Saturday 2 August.