“Camelot”

   “Don’t let it be forgot. That once there was a spot.  For one brief shining moment, that was known as Camelot”. This is the enduring stanza of a memorable song from the classic 1960 musical, Lerner and Loewe’s CAMELOT, which has inspired countless fans for almost 50 years, including a President of the United States. Fanfare, please! To the herald of trumpets, The Community Arts Theater Society (CATS) in Big Bear Valley proudly brings CAMELOT to the Big Bear stage. Opening with a specially priced discount preview on June 27, CAMELOT plays for 11 performances, only, through July 13. No one will want to miss this “one brief shining moment”, filled with beautiful music, glorious songs and gorgeous costumes and sets.   In accordance with CATS’ mission statement of providing quality and affordable theater to the Big Bear Valley, ticket prices are “family affordable”. Ticket information and on line ticketing can be found at www.bigbeartheater.org.

   Based on the T.H. White novel, The Once and Future King, this romantic and timeless musical tale of King Arthur’s famous round table is directed by Steve Cassling, with CATS’ incredible production team providing beautiful sets and costumes.  The musical features beloved classics such as ‘Camelot’, ‘The Lusty Month of May’ and the glorious ballad immortalized by the late Robert Goulet, ‘If Ever I Would Leave You’.  Produced for CATS by Karen Sargent Rachels and Russ Lowery, Cassling teams up again with Classic Tales Declassified partner, Brian Adams, who serves as Production Supervisor.  Joanne McMaster is the Set Designer with Priscilla Anderson as Costume Designer.  Cathy Winch choreographs.

   Many of CATS’ favorite performers are on hand, with Cassling as King Arthur, Brett Smith as Lancelot, Steve Combs as Merlyn, and Ty Warren featured as Pellinore. Guenevere is played by CATS’ veteran, Sarah Adams, who is currently a Theatre Arts Major at Boston University.  Sarah, from the age of 11, has been in seen in many Community Arts Theater productions and returns home to play this featured role.  Others in the cast include: Paul Mitton, Sir Dinadan, Cameron Sundeen-Tierce, Sir Lionel, Joe Sellarole, Sir Sagramore, Daniel Rich, Mordred, Jessica Brown, Nimue, Alicia Jiminez, Morgan Le Fey and Spencer Cassling, Tom of Warwick.  There is a special chorus of Big Bear favorites as The Lords and Ladies of Camelot, as well as the wonderful CATS’ children as the Dryads and an opening ballet, featuring the Bear Lake Dance Company.

   Camelot opens with the Discount Preview on June 27, followed by performances on June 28, July 2, 3, 5, 9, 11 and 12 at 7:30 PM and Sunday Matinees on June 29, July 6 & 13 at 1:30 PM.   Tickets range in price according to dates and locations, with Adults ranging from $9.95 - $22.95; seniors, $8.95- $20.95; and Kids under 18, $6.95-$15.95.  Information and tickets are available on line at CATS web site:  www.bigbeartheater.org  or contact the PAC Box Office at 909-866-4970. 

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