New York’s summer theater season is about to get a jolt of political drama, power plays, and full-blown chaos as NAATCO’s acclaimed Henry VI: A Trilogy in Two Parts lands at The Public Theater for a highly anticipated run.
The production—originally staged in 2018 to strong reviews—returns under the direction of Stephen Brown-Fried, with repertory performances beginning June 9 and an official opening set for June 21. The limited engagement will run through July 19 in the Newman Theater, bringing one of William Shakespeare’s most sprawling histories back to life with a modern, high-energy twist.
Presented by National Asian American Theatre Company, the production condenses Shakespeare’s Henry VI Parts 1, 2, and 3 into a gripping two-part theatrical event. The first installment, Foreign Wars, begins with the death of King Henry V, leaving his infant son to inherit a fractured kingdom teetering on instability. The second, Civil Strife, jumps ahead nearly three decades, as political tensions explode into the brutal conflict known as the War of the Roses.
Critics have already taken notice. A previous run earned praise from The New York Times, which called the production “fast-paced and gripping,” highlighting its unflinching portrayal of power and mortality.
The ensemble cast features a dynamic lineup including Tommy Bo, Rajesh Bose, Kimiye Corwin, Myka Cue, and Mia Katigbak, among others. Together, they bring to life a sweeping story of ambition, betrayal, and the dangerous ripple effects of leadership gone wrong.
This marks another major collaboration between NAATCO and The Public Theater, following past productions like Out of Time and Awake and Sing!. Known for its commitment to reimagining classic works through inclusive casting and bold interpretation, NAATCO continues to push the boundaries of how Shakespeare is experienced by contemporary audiences.
The production also arrives as part of a packed season at The Public, which includes new works, high-profile premieres, and the return of Free Shakespeare in the Park. With audiences increasingly drawn to stories that mirror today’s political and social tensions, Henry VI feels especially timely—offering a centuries-old narrative that still hits uncomfortably close to home.
For theatergoers looking for масштаб storytelling with urgency and edge, this revival isn’t just another Shakespeare production—it’s a reminder that history, when staged right, can feel like breaking news.