`HENRY IV': FALSTAFFIAN HUMOR (REVIEW)

"Henry IV, Part I" is a play about the struggle between political beliefs and personal choices, but in Shakespearean terms the historical drama is important because it introduces audiences to the sublimely ridiculous and comically magnificent fool called Falstaff.

One of the many charms of the University Theatre's production of "Henry IV, Part I" is Dr. Robert Dillon Jr.'s transformation of his tall, thin persona into a memorable, waddling, irrepressible "Sir John Paunch."

The University Theatre production opens tonight at 8 at the Forrest H. Rose Theatre. The play continues Saturday, Thursday and next Friday with performances at 8 p.m. Performances also will be presented at 10 a.m. Tuesday and Wednesday.

Interpretation services will be provided by Valerie Kline on Thursday.

"Henry IV, Part I" is a sprawling, 2 hour and 45-minute package of humor, swordplay and monologue-heavy drama. Director Dr. Donald Schulte has streamlined this production, accomplishing many of the scene changes simply by turning a tent to a new angle.

Scenic designer Dennis C. Seyer succeeds in the task of showcasing the dialogue.

The assurance of Schulte as the formidable King Henry IV and Dillon's superb comic characterization ground the spirited production, which requires many of the student actors and actresses to play different roles.

One exception to the rule of multiple roles is Steve Ruppel, who makes a heroic and humane Prince Hal. The tavern scene in which Falstaff and Prince Hal put on "a play extempore" is the highlight of the play, providing both moments of hilarity and a foreshadowing of the prince's sense of purpose.

"Banish Plump Jack, and banish all the world," says Falstaff.

Prince Hal responds: "I do, I will."

Marc Stephens gives a forceful account of himself in the demanding role of Hotspur, the rebel who challenges the king.

Jessica Nelms and Rachel Roberts enliven the proceedings in their various appearances, especially as the carriers. Kathryn Waterhout as Lady Percy and Megwyn Sanders as the hostess also are memorable.

Also appearing in smaller roles in this well-acted play are Herbert Breece, Fred Mashburn, Timothy G. Medlock, Jason Merkler, David Schneider, Timothy P. Whalen and Terence Vallelunga.

The assistant director is Melissa Grote, and the stage manager is Kim Westrich. Schulte has had to rely on both heavily because he is acting in the production.

Dillon is the fight director, with Vallelunga serving as the fight captain.

Seyer is the technical director and helped design the lights along with April Scott.

The smart costumes are by Sharon Anderson.