Shakespeare's saga of the young Prince Hal (Freddy Douglas) is simultaneously one of his most accessible and inaccessable plays for a modern audience. Because of its colorful main characters -- the jolly and dissolute Sir John Falstaff (Geoff Elliott) and the roguish young prince -- the play has an instant comedic appeal. However, the play's tone must balance the comedy with the epic, dramatic struggle for the throne, launched by Hotspur (J. Todd Adams), which can be a challenge for audiences who want clear boundaries between comedy and drama. The play also is largely dependent on the talent and intelligence of the actors playing Prince Hal and Falstaff.
Fortunately, this production is graced with two actors who not only have extraordinary skill and intelligence but also have great chemistry between them. Douglas is marvelous, a study in calm, intense focus in the intricate role. Listening to the care and precision he brings to each speech is a treat; clearly, he is an actor of great accomplishment. Elliott, who co-directed the play with Julia Rodriguez-Elliott, is also terrific. He approaches the role with gusto and affection and finds all the shades of this character, who is often played as a buffoon but has many more-subtle hues. Because of the charisma and talent of these two strong actors, the scenes between Hal and Falstaff sparkle with humor and grace.
The balance of the production is uneven. When Hal and Falstaff are off stage, much of the energy drops. The scenes with Hotspur have a frenetic, unfocused quality and don't seem to blend well with the rest of the play. Sets (Michael C. Smith) and costumes (Soojin Lee) are understated, not quite matching the scope of the play. The music (Laura Karpman) is rousing and inspirational, but the action on stage does not deliver what the music promises. The performances in supporting roles are dynamic and textured. In particular, Tom Beyer is a lovely sidekick to Hal, as are William Dennis Hunt and Ronnie Clark to Falstaff. Jill Hill is a delightful Mistress Quickly.
Presented by and at A Noise Within,
234 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale.
Repertory schedule Mar. 8-May 18.
(818) 240-0910, ext. 1. www.anoisewithin.org.