Henry V Special Effects Design

Written by William Shakespeare Adapted by John Tourtellotte 2024/2025 VHSL One Act

Fog

The fog used in this production of Henry V was used to enhance conceptual movement, specifically the slow motion battle sequences. Because of this, the fog was intentionally kept higher, allowing actors to become shadows and make movements look more dramatic. The pictures seen above are a combination of a final technical rehearsal and performance pictures.

Blood and Mud

Both the blood and mud recipes were actor safe and edible (just in case) for safe application and the health of all actors. Backstage opperations included several bottles of blood and a 5-gallon bucket of mud alongside the construction of an SFX pit utilizing tarps and stationed technicians for mid show application.

Because of the fast paced nature of this show (it was 30 minutes), besides blood just being used for injuries, it was also used alongside the mud to show the passage of time. Battles that couldn't be put on the stage due to lack of time were instead shown through the ensemble returning to the stage bloodier and muddier. The mud was also used extensively for Captain Fluellen's plot after his time in the mines. Both wet effects were also pre-applied and dried onto props.