Henry V at First Folio Theatre

Daily Herald - Highly Recommended

"...Further examples of Rice's canny casting include Sophie Scanlon's spiky, splenetic Dauphin who underestimates Henry to France's detriment. Scanlon also plays the Dauphin's playful sister Katherine, who Henry awkwardly but successfully woos in the play's closing moments. Sean Sinitski, who also plays the King of France, is deliciously corrupt as the sharp-tongued thief Pistol who -- with fellow scoundrel-soldiers Bardolph (Derek Jeck) and Nym (Shane Richlen) -- uses combat to cover up criminal activity."

Around The Town Chicago - Recommended

"...Opening night of First Folio Theatre’s “Shakespeare-Under-the-Stars” production of “Henry V” appropriately coincided with the eve of Bastille Day. Set against the background of the Hundred Years War, the story personifies the battle for supremacy between the English and French during the 14th and 15th centuries. It depicts one chapter of how English royal power advanced through a series of conflicts that sparked the establishment of Modern Europe."

Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended

"...This production of Henry V, anchored by a bravura performance by Coates, is a most fitting farewell to the old stage, which has been in service since Rice’s parents founded First Folio 22 years ago. David Rice intends to close down the company’s outdoor season next year before returning with a new stage in 2021. Until then, we’ll have to make do with the memory of this brilliantly cast, carefully edited, and cleverly directed play to tide us over."

Splash Magazine - Highly Recommended

"...Many Chicagoans expound on the joys of a patio brunch, an outdoor music festival, or a neighborhood block party. Rarely as acknowledged is the treat of a well-produced Shakespeare production in the park, but that doesn't make it any less true... and First Folio in Oak Brook is currently staging a truly marvelous example of all that makes an outdoor Shakespeare production enjoyable and memorable with their production of Henry V."