Young Company’s Newest Shakespeare Production Utilizes Generation-Specific Slang to Enhance Audience Experience
Tickets and Show Details
Date & Time: Feb. 12 – 14, 19 – 21 at 7:00 p.m. and Feb. 15, 22 at 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Location: Studio Theatre — West Campus
Price: $9-12
Tickets: Available online at BYU tickets.
A classic Shakespearean script gets a modern twist with BYU Young Company’s upcoming production of “Henry V.” The story follows King Henry’s success during the Hundred Years War, in which the underdog England comes out on top in the fight with France.
This adaptation will use storytelling techniques such as shadow puppets for the battle scenes and modern slang to honor Shakespeare’s creative wordsmithing.
“Shakespeare is known for his invention of numerous words and phrases such as ‘eyeball,’ ‘in a pickle’ and ‘break the ice,’ among many others — new words and slang have been a fixture throughout history,” said director Rebeca Wallin. “For instance, Victorians used the phrase ‘got the morbs’ to indicate temporary sadness. Following this timeless trend, we have added narration for the character of Chorus in the show that includes some Gen-Alpha phrases and words to cater to young audiences and help them better understand the plot. We are asking kids to understand Shakespearean language, and we're asking the adults to figure out Gen-Alpha slang.”
Shakespeare’s timeless tale invites audiences of all ages to reflect upon how the human family can come together and be united even in times of disharmony.
