'Lion in Winter' coming to Keizer stage

Tickets are on sale now for Keizer Homegrown Theatre’s new production, “The Lion in Winter.”

The show opens Nov. 7 and runs on weekends through Nov. 23. Curtain time is 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. for Sunday matinees.

The story tells of an angst-marked Christmastime reunion of England’s King Henry II with his imprisoned wife Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1183, as the family scions are mired in a dramatic struggle for power and the throne. The play, and the movie it inspired, are noted for witty dialogue and even humor amid serious themes.

Cast members rehearse their lines as they prepare for the opening of “The Lion in Winter” on the Keizer Homegrown Theatre stage. (Contributed photo)

The play was written by James Goldman. McNary’s production is directed by Keizer theater veteran Linda Baker.

The cast includes Rick Sanders at Henry II, King of England; Janice Munk as the French princess Alais; Tavis Evans, as John, the youngest son; Robert McMorris as Geoffrey, middle son; Nathaniel J. Pierce as Richard Lion Heart, oldest son; Nyla McCarthy, as Eleanor of Aquitaine; and Paul Nielson as Phillip, King of France.

For tickets visit keizerhomegrowntheatre.org online.

Rick Sanders, as King Henry II, and Nyla McCarthy, as Eleanor of Aquitaine, rehearse for the Keizer Homegrown Theater production opening in November. (Contributed photo)

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