Review: CAMELOT at Capital Repertory Theatre

Beautiful melodies fill Capital Repertory Theatre with director Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill's staging of Frederick Loewe and Alan Jay Lerner's "Camelot." The musical's score is composed of lush, romantic, and memorable tunes that help to move along the somewhat flawed book.

Each element of the production is well done in itself. Capital Region favorite Kevin McGuire channels his juvenile side in the role of King Arthur alongside Leenya Rideout, whose portrayal of Guinevere is beautifully touching and sentimental. Oliver Thornton delivers arguably the most gorgeous and moving moment of the musical in his act two rendition of "If Ever I Would Leave You." The chemistry between Rideout and Thornton is clearly evident from the moment their eyes meet to the suspenseful show's finale.

Many of the other actors compose the pit themselves, playing instruments such as the violin and trumpet. The set design by Brian Prather, costumes by Hyun Sook Kim and lighting by Travis McHale are all done wonderfully and help transform Capital Rep's stage into a true period realm.

Yet while the musical is quite perfectly executed, it doesn't seem to add up. The show's book is quite rushed, with a prolonged buildup and sudden dramatic ending. "Camelot" surely shines within its score, but dulls within its plot. Compared to previous productions such as "Outside Mullingar" and "The Trip to Bountiful," which brought tears to the eyes of many audience members, "Camelot" falls short in latching onto our hearts, and occasionally even our attention.

Perhaps it's just me. Perhaps others left "Camelot" feeling touched and compelled. Either way, I suggest you go simply to hear Thornton and Rideout's stunning ballads in act two. There aren't many times I wish I could record part of a show, but that was surely one of them.

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