2012 Festival audiences rediscovered Shakespeare through the physical style and engrossing interpretations of renowned all-male theatre company Propeller.

When you’ve got the words of history’s greatest playwright to work with, why do anything else? That’s Propeller’s philosophy and it’s one that works.

Directed by Edward Hall (son of theatre royalty Sir Peter Hall), Propeller combined unwavering devotion to the original beauty of Shakespeare’s text with inventive staging that added clarity and appeal for today’s audience.

Presenting two very different yet equally enthralling works, this was fast, witty and accessible – Shakespeare at its most refreshing and alive.

HENRY V

Full of famously rousing speeches, Henry V is the tale of the greatest warrior in English folklore. Chronicling Henry’s transformation from irresponsible youth to inspirational leader, we followed his journey from the corridors of Westminster to the battlefields of France. There, outnumbered by the enemy five to one, the young king rallied his ‘band of brothers’ for battle upon battle in a war of dubious justification.

Set in a time when British nationalism is at its most dangerous and exciting, Propeller presented an original take on one of Shakespeare’s powerhouse history plays.

Presented in association with The Touring Partnership