Henry V

By William Shakespeare
Directed by Elizabeth Williamson

Recommended for 9th grade and up

In Shakespeare’s Henry V, shortly after gaining the throne, Henry must decide whether or not to embark on a war that could solidify his reign—or bring his country to its knees. In France, he grows up fast under the pressure to use all means necessary to win a war against tremendous odds. But even if he finds victory, how easy will it be to settle the peace?

Themes & Topics for discussion: Shakespeare, war, class, leadership, diplomacy, national identity | Please note: Contains some violence.

Performance Dates (all performances are at 10:30 am)

• Tue. 10/30/18
• Wed. 11/7/18
• Thu. 11/8/18
• Fri. 11/9/18

A Christmas Carol:
A Ghost Story of Christmas

By Charles Dickens

Adapted and originally directed by Michael Wilson

Directed by Rachel Alderman

Recommended for 4th grade and up

Hartford Stage brings the magic of Dickens’ heart-warming classic to life in this Connecticut holiday tradition! Recently redesigned costume and set elements bring a fresh look to this well-loved tale of transformation. Ebenezer Scrooge, the heartless miser discovers the true meaning of the holiday season after a Christmas Eve haunting. Visit or revisit Charles Dickens’ beloved characters: Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit and the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future.  Ghosts take flight and soar across the stage, carols are sung and snow falls capturing the spirit of a Victorian Christmas forever warming the hearts of adults and children alike.

Themes & Topics for discussion: Dickens, adaptation of literature, Industrial Revolution, greed and generosity, responsibility to others

Performance Dates (all performances are at 10:30 am)

• Tue. 11/27/18
• Wed. 11/28/18
• Thu. 11/29/18
• Tue. 12/4/18
• Wed. 12/5/18
• Thu. 12/6/18
• Fri. 12/7/18
• Tue. 12/11/18
• Wed. 12/12/18
• Tue. 12/18/18
• Wed. 12/19/18

Detroit ’67

In association with McCarter Theatre Center

By Dominique Morisseau

Directed by Jade King Carroll

Recommended for 11th grade and up

Dominique Morisseau’s powerful Detroit ’67 unfolds during an explosive moment in U.S. history—the race riots that tore the city of Detroit apart. The story centers on Chelle and her brother Lank, who make ends meet by turning their basement into an after-hours party. When a mysterious woman makes her way into their lives, the siblings clash over much more than family business.

Themes & Topics for discussion: trust, family, resilience, privilege, police brutality, survival, alternative economies, 1967 Detroit race riots | Please note: Contains strong language, violence, and some sexuality.

Performance Dates (all performances are at 10:30 am)

• Thu. 3/7/19

Jeeves & Wooster in "Perfect Nonsense"

A New Play from the Works of P.G. Wodehouse

By the Goodale Brothers

Directed by Sean Foley

Recommended for 8th grade and up

Everything goes awry when Bertie Wooster, a wealthy British gentleman with a penchant for telling stories, decides to stage a one-man show on London’s West End. Things go from bad to worse when Wooster’s loyal valet, Jeeves, valiantly steps in to help save the day in this Olivier Award-winning Robert and David Goodale adaptation inspired by the hilarious P.G. Wodehouse classic The Code of the Woosters.

Themes & Topics for discussion: English traditions of service, farce, storytelling, adaptation, theatricality & aesthetics.

Performance Dates (all performances are at 10:30 am)

• Wed. 4/17/19