Seattle Shakespeare Company artistic director Stephanie Shine directs Henry IV, which compacts Henry IV, Parts I and II into one three-act, full-length evening. The production was previously seen at Lincoln Center under the direction of Jack O'Brien in 2003.

David Pichette stars in the title role in the SSC production, which begins performances Oct. 23 and continues through Nov. 16. An official opening for Henry IV has been set for Oct. 24 at the Center House Theatre at Seattle Center.

"I love the history plays," said director Shine in a statement. "I'd do them all the time if I could get away with it. But this event and adaptation is very special: Henry IV examines issues around leadership, honor, rebellion, and the tumultuous road of boyhood into manhood. Extremely potent subjects right now. Dakin's lean and muscular adaptation captures many of the key elements from the rarely produced part two and weaves the stories together in a gripping dramatic way. I'm thankful that David and Richard brought it to my attention. This is a terrific opportunity for our audiences to discover this story in its entirety."

The company also features Tim Gouran (Prince Hal), Richard Ziman (Falstaff), Patrick Allcorn (Douglas/Westmoreland), Shawn Belyea (Glendower/Warrick/Archbishop), Keith Dahlgren (Northumberland/Bardolph), Alycia Delmore (Lady Percy/Doll Tearsheet), Ben Gonio (Hotspur/Silence), Leticia Jaramillo (Mistress Quickly), David Anthony Lewis (Worcester), Jon Lutyens (Poins/Vernon), Brandon Petty (Prince John/Nym /Mortimer), Sean Shannon (Hastings/Francis), Brian Claudio Smith (Pistol/Blunt) and Allison Michelle Standley (Lady Mortimer/Davy).

The creative team for Henry IV includes Pete Rush (set and costume design), Tim Wratten (lighting design) and M. Elizabeth Eller (sound design). Tickets are available by phoning (206) 733-8222 or by visiting SeattleShakespeareCompany.