Theater Review / Lion in Winter

By Diane Johnson

Lion in Winter is a riveting drama full of conspiracies and trickery in a setting that transports you back to the days of King Arthur.

Performed in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, this Fringe Theater production brings you back in time. Built in 1838, with stained glass windows, cathedral ceilings and a bell tower; St. Paul’s is the perfect setting for a tale that takes place in medieval times. Martina Bevis, the court musician completes the illusion, making her guitar sound like a lute.

Rebecca Tomlinson, a true Renaissance woman directs the players in “immersion theater” which “focuses on relationships” within the walls of a castle. Rebecca has been directing for over 25 years. Her skills are apparent as she skillfully directs the eight-person cast. Playwright James Goldman received an Academy Award for Lion in Winter. Goldman was a prolific playwright, educated at the University of Chicago and Columbia; he authored 17 plays during his career.

Lion in Winter is a historical drama based upon the royal families of France and England. Set at Christmastime in 1183, the royal court intrigue is palpable. King Henry II, played by P.J. King was trained in classical theater in London. His acting is spot on as the aging monarch obsessed with deciding who will succeed him once he dies. Annie Miners is Eleanor, Queen of Aquitaine, and the master of manipulation in the royal family. She has been imprisoned for threatening Henry’s life, yet claims to still love him. Henry and Eleanor match wits and exchange barbs as each envisions a different son to succeed the King. The oldest son is Richard, played by Michael McCabe who portrays a strong brute of a man and his mother’s favorite. He has also proven himself on the field of battle as a fierce fighter, who will later be known as Richard the Lionheart. Jeremy P. Hyatt is the youngest son John. His acting is enthusiastic and full of youthful energy bounding across the stage. However, it becomes painfully obvious this young man is not ready for the throne. Geoffrey is the middle son and not well liked by either one of his parents. Played by John C. Reynolds, he depicts the conniving son who enjoys putting his brothers and parents into uncomfortable compromising positions.

Another dramatic element is the romantic triangle between King Henry, Queen Eleanor and Alais, King Phillip’s half sister. Lisa Elena Monda delivers a heartfelt performance as the sweet Alais, King Henry’s mistress. Phillip, King of France, provides icing on the cake and the final layer of intrigue. He has come to visit King Henry and demand that Richard, his eldest son, marry Alais, as agreed upon in a previous contract. Kaleb Morgan Smith immerses himself in the role as King Phillip, portraying a royal full of cynical angst caught in tense negotiations.

Lion in Winter is now playing from February 18 – 20, 24 – 27 and March 2 -5 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. For tickets call: 305-295-7676 or on-line at http://www.fringetheater.org

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