Fenix Theatre Returns "Henry IV, Part One" After Six Years Delay

Peter Brown directs Shakespeare's classic with new cast and shorter runtime

PORTLAND — After a six-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fenix Theatre Company is set to stage William Shakespeare's "Henry IV, Part One" at Deering Oaks Park this summer. The production marks the company's 18th season and features a revised script designed to fit within daylight hours, along with a new lead actor who stepped in to fill a critical role vacancy.

Artistic Director Peter Brown has expressed both frustration and optimism regarding the delay. In an earlier email during the 2020 production planning phase, Brown described the play as "one of Shakespeare's greatest plays and an absolute favorite of mine." That sentiment remains unchanged despite the postponed debut, which finally arrives this year.

The primary obstacle to the production's realization was securing an actor capable of portraying Falstaff. When the company began preparations in 2020, David Butler was slated to take on the role. However, Butler passed away the following summer, leaving a significant gap in the cast. Brown attributes this loss as a major barrier to moving forward with the production.

The search continued until Michael Howard, an actor connected to Maine but currently residing in Texas, volunteered to return to Portland for three months of intensive preparation. His willingness to relocate temporarily allowed the company to move ahead with casting.

With the casting issue resolved, Brown has chosen to emphasize comedy over strict historical fidelity. This approach aims to engage audiences directly with the central narrative of Prince Henry (Hal) ascending to the English throne, which he initially resists from his father's disapproval. While critics may question whether Hal spends sufficient time with the disreputable yet charming Sir John Falstaff during tavern scenes, Brown considers these moments "endlessly entertaining." Later battle sequences involving Hotspur and other combatants are expected to serve as additional highlights.

The finalized version of the play runs approximately ninety minutes without an intermission—a decision made to ensure each performance concludes before sunset. This abridgment represents a deliberate creative choice rather than a compromise. The production will feature contemporary musical elements composed by Sam Finn Cutler, adding modern texture to the period drama.

The show opens at the Deering Oaks Park bandstand beginning July 9 and continues weekly through August 1. Twelve performances are scheduled, with Thursday through Sunday matinees running at 6:30 p.m. Two specific dates include special accommodations: the July 16 performance offers audio description, and the July 23 showing provides American Sign Language interpretation. Admission is free, though donations are welcomed from attendees.

This revival brings back familiar faces alongside local talent. Keating Babcock takes on the role of Prince Hal, while Maureen Butler—widow of the late David Butler—appears among the supporting cast. Other local performers include Kevin O'Leary and others selected from the community.

Fenix Theatre has long championed accessibility and open programming, and this outdoor production promises to deliver exactly that. By bringing Shakespeare's timeless exploration of family, identity, and leadership to a public gathering space, the company hopes to rekindle communal energy around the arts.

The production runs through early August, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to experience a complete theatrical work in a setting that blends nature with performance. Whether one approaches the play as a scholar of literature or simply enjoys a summer evening of entertainment, the Fenix Theatre Company invites the community to join them on this journey.