‘The Lion in Winter’ closes out Valley Center Stage season

Published 9:30 am Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Valley Center Stage presents the final show of its 2015-16 season, “The Lion in Winter,” opening Friday, May 6 at the community theater, located at 119 W. North Bend Way, North Bend.

Described as a “modern day classic of family drama,” “The Lion in Winter” takes the audience on a wild ride inside the castle of Henry II during a Christmas celebration the King has thrown for his guest, newly crowned King of France, Philip II Augustus. The King’s three surviving sons, his mistress and his wife, Eleanor, who has been imprisoned since launching a revolt against her husband, are also in attendance. Sparks fly with sharp dialogue, shifting loyalties and rivalries.

Directed by British-born Vince Brady, the production features Peter Cook as King Henry II, Rochelle Wyatt as Eleanor, Dylan Cook as Geoffrey, David Hebert as Richard Lionheart, Ryan Hartwell as John, Austin Matteson as King Phillip II and Rachel Friedley as Alais.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, May 6 to 7, May 12 to 14, and May 19 to 21, and 2 p.m. Saturday, May 14. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.

Tickets are $17.50 for adults; $14 for senior/students. Order tickets online at www.valleycenterstage.org or purchase at the door.