About the Show

Ian McKellen – ‘one of the world’s greatest actors’ (Times) – plays Falstaff in a new version of Shakespeare’s Henry IV, adapted by the award-winning writer and director Robert Icke.

Joining the previously announced Ian McKellen as Sir John Falstaff are Toheeb Jimoh (Ted Lasso & Romeo and Juliet – Almeida) as Hal and Richard Coyle (Ink – Almeida/West End & Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore) as King Henry IV.

A divided country, leadership crumbling, corruption in the air. Welcome to England.

Hal wasn’t born to be king. Only now, it seems, he will be. His father longs for him to leave behind his friends in the taverns of Eastcheap, most notably the infamous John Falstaff. War is on the horizon. But will Hal ever come good?

Bringing together Shakespeare‘s two great history plays (Henry IV, parts 1 and 2) into the theatrical event of the season, Player Kings will reign over the UK in 2024.

Completing the cast alongside Ian McKellen, Toheeb Jimoh and Richard Coyle are Raphael Akuwudike, Sara Beharrell, Samuel Edward-Cook, Geoffrey Freshwater, James Garnon, Alice Hayes, Henry Jenkinson, Nigel Lister, Annette McLaughlin, Mark Monero,  Hywel Morgan, Joseph Mydell, Clare Perkins, Daniel Rabin, David Semark, David Shelley, Robin Soans, Tafline Steen, Perry Williams.

Cast

Richard Coyle King Henry IV
Raphael Akuwudike Prince John/Second Drawer
Sara Beharrell Hotspur's Servant/Snare/Davy
Samuel Edward-Cook Hotspur/Pistol
James Garnon Worcester/Silence
Alice Hayes Messenger/Carrier
Nigel Lister Northumberland/Francis
Hywel Morgan Sir Walter Blunt
Joseph Mydell Lord Chief Justice
Clare Perkins Mistress Quickly
David Shelley Sheriff/Surrey
Tafline Steen Tearsheet/Lady Percy
Perry Williams Page/Douglas/Thomas

Theatre news & discounts

Get the best deals and latest updates on theatre and shows by signing up for WhatsOnStage newsletter today!