QuarryWorks Stages "Camelot
by Jacqueline Kirby Montpelier Bridge, July 18, 2003
The Lerner and Loewe musical "Camelot" now being performed at the
QuarryWorks Theater in Adamant is based on T H.White's novel "The Once
and Future King." This novel tells the story of King Arthur and his Knights
of the Round Table and the love triangle between Arthur, Guenevere and Lancelot.
This two-act play shows us the first meeting of Arthur and Guenevere, sets forth
Arthur's "might for right" campaign, develops the romantic triangle
between Arthur, Guenevere and Lancelot and provides humor and songs. Tragedy
is hastened by the appearance of Mordred, Arthur's illegitimate son. Early in
the first act, there is a delightful scene between Arthur and Guenevere, played
by David Shutz and Karen Machia. Guenevere sings "Where are the simple
joys of Maidenhood?", unaware of Arthur peeking at her from behind a tree.
Shutz's face is a changing reflection of grimaces and changing looks. Finally
he leaps into view saying: I won't hurt you." Guenevere replies: "Why
not?" Karen Machia's expression of dismay demonstrates in a humorous way
Guenevere's boredom and hope of finding a tittle excitement.
As the play progresses the audience witnesses more and more of Arthur's internal
torment. Shutz portrays Arthur as insecure, intense, childlike, full of ideas,
lacking confidence, passionate.
The arrogant Lancelot played by Brickett Bailey makes his entrance with flair.
He dramatically flings off his black cape, his rich robust voice booming "C"est
Moi", arms crossed, nose up in the air.
Jonathan Herz turns in a fine and humorous performance as Arthur's friend, the
bumbling Pellinore. Herz, dressed in full armor, clanks around the stage with
his enormous shaggy dog, Horrid, played by Mike Boland.
Shutz makes us feel Arthur's agony and pain in realizing the love between Guenevere
and Lancelot. After weighing his feelings as both a man and a king, he ultimately
decides to honor his love and not his feelings of violence.
Early in the second act, Mordred, played by Malcolm Purinton arrives at the
castle, dressed in black with silver touches. Purinton is convincing as Arthur's
evil illegitimate son. Discovering Guenevere and Lancelot alone together, he
brings charges of treason.
Guenevere narrowly escapes being burned at the stake. Machia is convincing,
touching and tender as Guenevere in her sorrowful farewell scene with Arthur.
All appears lost. But in this version, a glimmer of hope comes not from a boy
as in many previous versions, but from Bess (later proclaimed Lady Bess of Warwick)
played by Maer Gillespie. Looking like a boy, her long hair and gender are concealed
beneath a cap. Gillespie's performance demonstrates remarkable presence.
The QuarryWorks version of Camelot is a community production and the actors
represent a wide range of talent and experience. Not surprisingly, there is
some unevenness in some of the performances.
The stage sets are simple but effective. Good use is made of the entire theater
space including the aisles. The costuming is dazzling and sensuous, a feast
for the eyes.
Michael John Suchomel directs the show, Mark Violette is Music Director and
Frank Suchomel is Producer.
Upcoming Camelot performances are 7:30 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday,
July 17, 18, and 19. Matinees are July 19 at I pm and Sunday, July 20 at 2 pm.
There is no charge for admission. Seating is limited. Information: 229-9297.