Showtimers Community Theatre presents their current play, ‘The Lion in Winter,’ which opened Wednesday, April 11 at 8 p.m. and continues Wednesdays through Sundays, April 12-22. Wednesday through Saturday performances are at 8 p.m. and Sunday performances are at 2 p.m.

In ‘The Lion in Winter,’ Henry II, King of England (David Colatosti) and Eleanor (Vickie Haynie) must decide which of theirs sons will inherit the throne. Henry wants to pass it along to his youngest son, John (Drew Taylor), while Eleanor wants their oldest son, Richard (Jonathan Wallin), to rule the kingdom.

Other cast members include Joel Gruver as Philip, King of France, Tim Kennard as middle son Geoffrey and Amy Looney as Alais, a French princess.

‘The Lion in Winter’ is directed by Jayne Brill (celebrating her 20th year with Showtimers), with Bonnie Leder as stage manager and John Nichol helping with set design.

“I love doing period pieces,” said Brill, “and exposing the audience to something different.”

‘Lion,’ set in 1183, will definitely do just that. This dramatic comedy is “so well written,” says  Brill. One of the most fun parts of this performance for Brill was “trying to lead the characters to find the comedy in it. It’s not only interesting to read, but it’s entirely entertaining for the audience.”

As with any live performance, the cast and crew have faced some challenges–including the shortest rehearsal time “ever” of five and a half weeks, according to Brill. But it’s been no problem, she says, “because the cast is so talented.”

Tickets are $12 for adults. Reserve your seats by calling 540-774-2660 or toll free at 877-336-9294. You can also visits Showtimers Community Theatre online at www.showtimers.org.

Showtimers is located at 2067 McVitty Road in Roanoke.