Wednesday, Jul. 29, 2009

'Camelot' at the Muny — a most congenial spot

With one show left to go, an opulent "Camelot" is the best production of the Muny season to date.

It certainly cast a spell on a magical opening night, as the legendary 1960 Lerner-and-Loewe musical was brought vividly to life by the season's strongest ensemble.

The three leads are extraordinary, superbly delivering the lush score. The Muny Orchestra is in fine form as well, and you might notice a harp peeking out of the orchestra pit.

This presentation starts with an anxious Arthur meeting his pretty but reluctant bride, Guenevere. They merrily preside over their court, and chivalry thrives. His dream of the Knights of the Round Table comes into fruition, with the goal that might fights for right. Enter Lancelot, a swashbuckling knight from France. Guenevere at first loathes him, but lo and behold, when tragedy is averted, she falls in love with him. It's reciprocated, but only in thoughts, not action. Their conflicts, especially when all three of them love and respect each other, are heightened.

The evil Mordred is a dangerous presence, and the idyllic kingdom threatens to be toppled. Battles begin, peace is shattered, and it appears, Camelot will live on only in memory.

Combining a bittersweet mythical story with grand romance, political idealism and serious conflicts, "Camelot" percolates with passion, dusted with a touch of whimsy, and featuring a nice balance of drama and comedy.

As noble King Arthur, Jeff McCarthy cuts a regal figure. He has a commanding presence on stage, with a powerful voice and robust delivery. While the score is one of Broadway's best, the book is a bit dense, and some of Arthur's soliloquy's can be troublesome, but McCarthy handled them well.

He'll make you think "Richard Who?" while you're watching, for both Tony winner Richard Burton and Richard Harris in the acclaimed revival as well as the movie stamped their larger-than-life personalities on the role. But McCarthy, who played Javert in the Muny's revered production of "Les Miserables" two summers ago and has a long list of Broadway, TV and movie credits, makes it his own.

Matching his vocal prowess and passion are Jenny Powers as Guenevere and Lewis Cleale as Lancelot. Cleale's "If Ever I Would Leave You" is breathtaking, and perhaps the best-delivered show tune of the entire season. Cleale might not look like your typical Lancelot, but he has a stunning voice. He's been a Muny favorite for years, portraying Tony in "West Side Story" and Lt. Cable in "South Pacific," and is currently on leave from the storied off-Broadway production of "The Fantasticks," where he is playing El Gallo.

Powers, who made her Muny debut as Nancy in "Oliver!" in 2006, has appeared as Rizzo in a "Grease" revival on Broadway, and also has a noteworthy list of stage and screen credits. Her royal demeanor and beautiful soprano make "What Are the Simple Joys of Maidenhood" and "I Loved You Once in Silence" high points.

Powers and McCarthy shine in the playful "What Do the Simple Folk Do?"

Besides their glorious musical numbers, the trio convincingly present the tormented romantic triangle. It could be heavy-handed in lesser hands, but they bring forth a lot of emotion. The finale is as moving as can be, and I brushed a few tears away.

"Don't let it be forgot

That once there was a spot,

For one brief, shining moment

That was known as Camelot."

I mean, it's ready-made for waterworks, and how can you not after seeing this cast rise to the occasion. "Camelot" has been presented on the Muny stage nine times, the last time in 2002. While I have the fondest memories of seeing both Richard Harris portray King Arthur and Robert Goulet at the Fox in a national touring production, this "Camelot" raises the bar.

Also noteworthy is Allen Read as the slimy Mordred, Arthur's illegitimate son who wreaks havoc on the goodness Arthur has built up, and Fred Applegate in fine comedic form as King Pellinore.

Belleville native Ray Fournie, a longtime Muny veteran and a 1969 Althoff High School graduate, is a fierce Sir Dinadan, and it's wonderful to see him onstage again. His voice is strong, recalling when he made a name for himself as a student at Althoff who also performed in plays at the Academy of Notre Dame and the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows.

Another local participant is Brannan Hutchinson of Columbia, who is one of the 10 royal pages. He is the son of Columbia Mayor Kevin Hutchinson and his wife, Paula Hutchinson.

With its exquisite costumes and well-cast ensemble, this "Camelot" enchants. If you haven't gone yet this summer, this is the one not to miss.