Of all Shakespeare Coeur d’Alene’s productions so far, Artistic Director Mary Bowers is most excited for audiences to see "Henry V" this weekend. This is her first time bringing one of Shakespeare’s histories to Coeur d’Alene audiences, and "Henry V" is her favorite of his works.

“This is a whole new genre for us, and I think for a lot of our audience,” Bowers said. “I think it’s the best show we’ve had, the performances across the board have been spectacular.”

"Henry V" is part of a series of plays chronicling the stories of England’s kings, although its plot stands on its own. Once a rambunctious youth, King Henry transforms into a noble ruler as he leads England into the Hundred Years’ War with France.

Bowers said the character of Henry, portrayed by North Idaho College assistant theater professor Adam Kroeger, is the emotional core of the show.

“He has brought things to the role I never even thought of, and I think it’s gonna blow people away,” Bowers said.

Kroeger brings an extensive background in stage and screen acting to the role, with credits including "Oppenheimer," "SEAL Team," "This Is Us" and "Strange Angel." He said Henry V is one of his dream roles. The character’s strength and complexity have always compelled him.

“I always wanted to play this character,” Kroeger said. “The thing I’ve really come to appreciate about the character is the underlying philosophy about leadership, and what it means to be a leader.”

For three years, Kroeger took a break from acting to serve as an active-duty Marine. He said his military experience strongly influences how he plays the role of Henry V.

“Adam plays him very much as a soldier-king, and that comes from his own background as a U.S. marine,” Bowers said. “This isn’t a two-dimensional superhero, he’s very, very human.”

As Henry V grows into his role as king during wartime, Bowers said the production captures the weight of responsibility on the king’s shoulders and the sacrifices required of a good leader.

“I have an experiential understanding of the cost of these things,” Kroeger said, regarding his military experience. “The sacrifice to your family when you’re away from them for long periods of time, the sacrifice to your health and safety and ultimately the willingness to sacrifice your life. Those are all things Henry talks about and deals with in the play and has to come to terms with.”

The cast rehearses for nine to 15 hours per week, and Kroeger said he dedicates an extra hour of individual practice each day because his character has the most lines.

To prepare for performances this weekend, the cast spends two hours in “fight club” at each rehearsal, practicing combat choreography. Bowers said audiences can expect riveting fight scenes, rousing speeches and a sprinkling of humor.

“I’ve never been moved to tears in a performance of 'Henry V,' but Adam makes me cry every time,” Bowers said. “It’s that gut-wrenching, the burden of kingship on this man and all the weight he feels.”

"Henry V" will be performed at the Midge and Pepper Family Theater at the Kroc Center from Oct. 16-18 and Oct. 23-25. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. An optional pre-show talk will take place an hour before each performance, during which Bowers will explain the play’s historical context.

Tickets are $30 for adults before taxes and $25 with a student or military discount. Tickets are available online only at shakespearecda.ticketgoat.com.

    Adam Kroeger as Henry V and the Henry V cast in a rehearsal at the Kroc center.
  

    Henry V cast rehearsing at the Kroc Center.
  

    Adam Kroeger and other Henry V cast members practice combat choreography at the Kroc Center.