In February, Morgan Barnes of Davidson was a finalist in the Wingate University Shakespeare Competition, which requires recitation of a 15-20 line piece and a sonnet by the Bard. Participants are judged on interpretation, diction and poise.

Now, Mr. Barnes (photo) can put that Shakespearean skill to use on stage, playing the title role in “Henry 4″ in a Children’s Theatre of Charlotte production May 18 and 19. The play is a modern interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic, “Henry IV.”

“I had to learn long speeches, but I’m really liking it,” Mr. Barnes said during a break from rehearsals at ImaginOn in downtown Charlotte Wednesday afternoon.

“Henry 4″ is one of three plays being staged over the same weekend at the ImaginOn’s McColl Family Theatre through the OnStage program, which allows Children’s Theatre students to audition for full theatrical performances. Mr. Barnes has been rehearsing three hours per day, four days per week since April 16.

The son of Robin Barnes and Ann Lee Bressler, Morgan is a home-schooled junior who has been involved in acting since he was a young boy. While he has had several major roles over the years, this is his first time in the lead. He will play King Henry IV of England, the wise father to “party boy Prince Hal” in what the program notes describe as “the touching story of a kid seeking his dad’s approval in a world filled with political intrigue, deceit and violence.”

Tickets cost $6. Click here for more information.