Bard fans in China get to watch his Prince Hal in action

Audiences in China who are familiar with William Shakespeare's tragic prince from the play Hamlet will now get a chance to find out more about the iconic dramatist's other royal character, Prince Hal, from his wayward youth in England to his battles later, when they watch Henry IV, Part I, Henry IV, Part II and Henry V.

The plays are about the troubled rule of King Henry IV and his son, Hal, who revels in the company of his friend Falstaff as his father prepares for war. Falstaff is sent to the countryside to recruit fresh troops, but he gleefully indulges in the business of lining his own pockets.

As the king's health fails and the crown comes under threat, the prince must confront his responsibilities.