Olivier Huband appears as The Dauphin/Ely in Shakespeare’s Henry V at the Donmar Warehouse. Olivier’s theatre credits include Barefoot in the Park (Pitlochry Festival Theatre), Such Filthy F*cks (Pleasance Theatre) and An Enemy of the People (Playground Theatre).
Shakespeare’s ever popular play is a thrilling study of nationalism, war and the psychology of power. Kit Harington leads the cast in an exciting modern production directed by Donmar Associate Director Max Webster, exploring what it means to be English and our relationship to Europe, asking: do we ever get the leaders we deserve?
The production opens at Donmar Warehouse on 22 February, with previews from 12 February, and runs until 9 April.
You’re appearing in the Donmar’s Henry V, what can you tell us about this production of Shakespeare’s classic?
This is a fresh, current and dynamic take on the very famous History play. Our production examines questions of nationhood, nationalism, what it means to be a leader and where the line is drawn between patriotism and barbarism. Much of the focus is on the relationships and the text, with very little reliance on set and props. There’s nowhere to hide! Especially in the Donmar.
Tell us a little about your characters, what are you enjoying most about them?
I play a couple of characters, but primarily the Dauphin who is the French King’s son. He’s ambitious, rebellious and somewhat of an outcast within his family. Unfortunately, it’s his actions that set off the course of events that lead to the great conflict within the play. I like to think that he means well, albeit underneath a façade of slight petulance and dissidence. Playing a solider is great too, particularly as we have gone all in on the realism. I won’t give too much away there.
Is this your first time performing Shakespeare, and what have you found to be the biggest challenge?
It’s my first time performing Shakespeare professionally, although I did quite a bit at school and in training. As always, it’s getting to grips with the language that can prove the biggest challenge. And once that’s under control, figuring how to use the text in a way that feels in the moment and active. It’s getting there though!
How have rehearsals been going so far, and have any moments really stood out for you?
Rehearsals have been intensely physical and rigorous, which I always expected. A lot of the focus has been on turning us into believable soldiers, which has been a novel experience for most of us. I’d definitely say the quickest way to get people to bond is to get them to sweat and curse as a collective however, and I think we very quickly learnt to carry one another and be there for one another.
What are you enjoying most about working with the cast and creatives involved in this production?
It feels like a real team effort; we’re not so much colleagues, but a band of brothers (pun intended) and sisters. Everyone’s got their own USP, their own energy and, blended, it makes for an eclectic and exciting dynamic in the room and in the play. There’s a lot of love and awareness in the room, and a respect for the work we are all making.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Henry V?
Don’t think about, do it. Putting on a play of such epic proportions in such a small and intimate space is quite a rare feat, and I think it’ll make for quite the experience – it certainly won’t be your run-of-the-mill Shakespearean experience! Expect to see you all in the bar after.
For Henry V featuring Olivier Huband, there is limited availability, a small number of additional tickets will be released online every day at 10am via www.donmarwarehouse.com
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