The University of Lethbridge is exploring the past this week when they perform the 1966 James Goldman historical play The Lion In Winter, Nov. 20-24.
It is about King Henry II of England and his family in 1183 as he must decide which of his sons inherits the throne.
“It’s a very well written play. It’s very clever,” said director Philip Adams.
He emphasized how much he is enjoying working with the cast which includes several Lethbridge theatre veterans who have performed with local troupes including New West Theatre, Playgoers of Lethbridge and Shakespeare in the Park. The cast features DJ Gellatly as King Henry, Makambe K Simamba as Henry’s estranged and imprisoned wife Eleanor, plus Craig McCue (playing Geoffrey), Andrew Merrigan (playing Philip); Colin Dingwall (John); Cameron Lomon (Richard) and Meredith Pritchard (Alais).
Though it is a drama, there is also a lot of humour in the play.
“I’m most excited to bring this play to life,” said Makambe K. Simamba, who plays King Henry’s estranged wife Eleanor who has been released from prison for Christmas.
“It is going to be exciting and the humour in the play is important,” she said.
“It needs an audience. All theatre needs an audience,” Adams said.
“That’s the final piece of the show, so I’m looking forward to having the audience there,” he continued.
Tickets are available at the University Box Office, Monday – Friday 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm, or call (403) 329-2616. Individual tickets are $15 regular, $10 seniors/students. Regular tickets are also available online, www.uleth.ca/tickets. It runs at 8 p.m. each night.
