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Scriptwriting/Dramatic Productions

THE TALES OF KING ARTHUR

Live the Honour. Witness the Love. Experience the Betrayal.

As Author in Residence at Nellie McClung Elementary School in Calgary, I was honoured to work with the students and teaching staff to create the script for the annual operetta. Taken directly from the official program, here is a synopsis of the plot of The Tales of King Arthur, performed to fabulous reviews in May 2005.

Act I

Our story begins with a celebration at the castle of Gorlois, Duke of Cornwall and his fair wife, the lovely Lady Igraine. Uther Pendragon, an honoured guest of the Duke, falls in love with Igraine and subsequently plots the Duke’s demise. Uther lays siege on Gorlois; the Duke perishes at the hands of Uther. Witnessing the death of her father, Morgaise vows revenge. Word of her husband’s death reaches Igraine who is overcome with grief. The treachery continues when Uther rushes to her side to comfort her in time of sorrow. He gains her confidence and, in time, they marry; a child is born to them, Arthur. At the celebration of Arthur’s birth, Uther meets his fate!

Act II

Our story continues as a young Arthur is seen with his surrogate family, to whom he was given as a baby. An exciting tournament is about to take place, and while the boastful Sir Kay is sure he will win fame and fortune, it is Arthur who accidentally incurs the spotlight thus having his destiny as England’s rightful king revealed.

Act III

After the sword from the stone is destroyed in battle, Lancelot tells Arthur about the Lady of the Lake. The Lady of the Lake implores Arthur to take Excalibur and unite England. Subsequently Arthur is offered, and accepts, the hand of Guinevere in marriage, not knowing Guinevere and Lancelot have eyes for each other. Meanwhile, Morgaise, daughter of Igraine and the Duke of Cornwall, is still plotting her revenge against Uther. She tricks Arthur into having a child, Mordred, by whom Arthur will ultimately be destroyed.

Act IV

During the Golden Period of Camelot, the kingdom is at peace and prosperity reigns. King Arthur bestows a knighthood on Lancelot for his loyalty and exploits. Arthur then challenges the knights to embark on a quest for the Holy Grail; they respond enthusiastically. Guinevere expresses her affection for Lancelot in a private conversation, spied on by Mordred. Lancelot is torn and vows not to return. Mordred tells Morgaise of Lancelot and Guinevere’s betrayal. Camelot unravels into two factions: one under Arthur, the other under Morgaise. Mordred dupes Arthur into accepting him as second in command, then attacks. King Arthur is vanquished and Camelot is no more.