Moorpark College to Stage 'Henry IV, Parts I & II'

The Moorpark College theater arts department will present two Shakespeare plays beginning March 28. The school will stage Henry IV Part I on Thursdays and Part II on Fridays through April 13. There will also be some Saturday performances.

The plays, set in early fifteenth-century England, follow the adventures of Prince Hal as he learns what it means to be king. King Henry IV has mounting problems, but Hal spends his time in London taverns with disreputable companions—including Sir John Falstaff—rather than show any interest in princley affairs.

The Moorpark stage will present bar room brawls, political intrigue, comic sequences, romance, sword fights and all-out war while Prince Hal proves himself worthy of his father’s trust.

"While Shakespeare is widely accepted as being the greatest writer in English literature, people often forget the epic nature of his work in the creation of a dramatic narrative that spans as many as eight plays.   Many of the students are playing the same roles in both shows and there is really a feeling of being in a sequel," said Theatre Arts Department Chair John Loprieno.

He said the large-scale production allows the community to see the depth of experience and talent at the school.

Part I will be presented Thursday evenings March 28 and April 4 and 11 at 8 p.m. Part II will be presented Friday evenings March 29, April 5 and 12 at 8 p.m. Both plays will be presented on Saturdays March 30 and April 6 and 13. On Saturdays, Part I will begin at 4 p.m. and Part II will begin at 8 p.m. The plays have been edited to be performed in 90 minutes each without an intermission.

Tickets are $10 for students, seniorsand staff and $15 for everyone else. There is also a two show package available for $15 for students, staff and seniors and $20 for adults.  Group discounts are also available.  For more information, visit MoorparkCollege.edu/PAC or call the Box Office at 805-378-1485.