By Demi Rose
“Don’t let it be forgot that once there was a spot…known as Camelot” Camelot at Brigham’s Playhouse in Washington, Utah is one to not be missed or forgotten as Broadway’s classic is portrayed through the keen eyes of L.A. Director/Actor Megan Rees and Music Director Taylor Williams. Upon entering the theater of Brigham’s Playhouse, audience members were pulled into medieval times with Celtic music influence and the performers themselves greeting you in character with trays of treats before you. With an eager, packed audience, the focus was drawn to the artistically pleasing rustic set displaying several ladders and even further to one ladder that held a red drum.
The curiosity about how the red drum would be used is answered quickly, as the stage is set-up to tell the legendary story of Arthur when Addison Kirk (Sir Sagramore) reaches for the drum and begins to perform a rhythmically energetic beat to what was to be one of the many appraised highlights of the show. The rest of the performers join in with different instruments such as a tambourine and woodblock while other cast members perform a dance that left the audience with promise and excitement for the rest of the show.
Following the musical introduction to Camelot, the story of Arthur unfolds. Arthur (Marshall McConkie) and Merlyn (Daniel Weber, who also plays Sir Pellinore) play well off of each other as they show good humor and kindness toward each other. McConkie and Weber are confident and succeed in having a relationship that is not contrived or forced. Weber delivers a line early on that is the precipice of the entire show, “One does not escape fate”.
McConkie is left to think to himself as he actively sings “I Wonder What the King is Doing Tonight”. McConkie finishes strong. Not too soon after McConkie’s song, Arthur and Guinevere (Jasmine Anderson) meet and form a bond that never leaves throughout the musical. Anderson portrays Guinevere with comic timing while still holding herself regally. Both McConkie’s Arthur and Anderson’s Guinevere show one of their greatest displays of loving friendship for each other when they come to sing “What Do the Simple Folk Do?” later in Act 2.
The ever-famous role of Lancelot (Kaden Caldwell) isn’t portrayed self-absorbed as is typically done. Caldwell’s Lancelot is human, a bit clumsy and had a hunger to do what is right. The audience loved his interpretation of “C’est Moi”. Caldwell’s voice is strong, romantic, and on point.
The villain of Camelot, Arthur’s illegitmate son Mordred (Caleb Christensen) comes on stage with a surge of power as he speaks in a clear Scottish accent and makes bold moves in his song “The Seven Deadly Virtues” that left the audience speechless.
Christensen’s Mordred is there to cause chaos with the Knights of the Round Table and his father King Arthur. Christensen succeeds in his mission as is shown as he and the knights Sir Lionel (Jason Buck), Sir Dinadan (Doug Knapp), and Kirk’s Sir Sagramore sing with boldness “Fie On Goodness” and each knight shows a clear distinction in the physical choices made throughout the song.
Furthermore, a huge recognition should go out to the cast members who have the challenge of playing more than one role. Daniel Weber, Ashlee Andersen, Alicia Buck, Vanessa Knapp, and Pierson Robison portray two or more roles involving several quick changes. The ensemble stays active even when holding up props throughout the show, display talents such as whistling, and the occasional use of more instruments in between set changes. The only real criticism I have is that there were some pauses of waiting for others to go on with the show and that some cast members looked like they were a little shy in movements or afraid to make a choice when the moment did in fact call for a fierce reaction, but I am sure when I come to see the performance again that it will have improved.
It should also be noted that the costuming (Tina Forsyth) and lighting (Gloria Morin) is impactful. With jewel-toned costuming and the help of the vibrant tones of the lighting, the musical in its entirety is brought together and packaged nicely with set design (Tonya Christensen).
Brigham’s Playhouse’s Camelot in Washington, Utah is suitable for families and adults and is sure to be a delight to all. Come see the royal caliber of this show, for one brief shining moment.
Brigham’s Playhouse presents Camelot by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe. Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner.
Brigham’s Playhouse, 25 N. 300 W. Washington, UT 84780
February 22 – March 23, 2019 Thur – Sat 7:00 PM, Sat Matinee 2:00 PM
Tickets: $17 – 23
Contact: 435-251–8000
Brigham’s Playhouse Facebook Page
Camelot Facebook Event
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