Henry IV finds himself facing uprisings from the Welsh chieftain and the impetuous young son of the Earl of Northumberland, angry with the king for not paying the chieftain's ransom for his brother-in-law. Another trial for Henry is the fact that his son, Prince Hal, keeps company with the older, reprobate drunkard Sir John Falstaff. Though the prince is his friend he is not above playing cruel jests on Falstaff, robbing him in disguise and returning his money after Falstaff has given an exaggerated account of his bravery in the hold-up. However, Hal joins his father at the wintry battle of Shrewsbury to put down Hotspur's revolt, where Hal kills Hotspur in single combat - Falstaff later claiming credit for the deed. Hotspur is routed but Henry and Hal still have to face the uprisings of Glendower and Nortumberland, now joined by the archbishop of York.

The Curtain Theatre is a non-profit organization based in Mill Valley, California. Since summer 2000 it has produced free theater in Old Mill Park with an emphasis on Shakespeare. The shows take advantage of a unique amphitheater, nestled in the redwoods, and are designed to appeal to both first-time viewers as well as theatre buffs.