American Rose Theatre's artistic director, Loren Salter, has captured the essence of medieval times and the reign of King Arthur in its production of the Lerner and Loewe musical "Camelot." The story centers on the days of Merlyn, Arthur, Guenevere, Lancelot and the legendary knights of the Round Table.

Scott Farrell portrays King Arthur with aplomb, easing into the role with a casualness that takes over the king's persona. Amanda Kramer is well cast as the beautiful Queen Guenevere. Jay Lorenson has a handle on his French accent and comes across well as the gallant Sir Lancelot.

Guenevere and Lancelot try to conceal their love that has blossomed over the years, but it is no secret to all around them, including the king.

Dave Sykes makes a fascinating Merlyn, the magician who lives in the future. Merlyn's guidance of King Arthur comes to a halt when the magician is lured away by an old love, leaving Arthur on his own to rule the kingdom.

Jeff Lee offers comic relief as the old knight, Pellinore. Kevin Koppman-Gue portrays the evil Modred, the illegitimate son of King Arthur.

Jay Kienle, Edwin Smith and Don Evans give strong performances as the knights who challenge Lancelot in the jousting competition.

Salter has staged the production using theater aisles for cast entrances and "windows" on the upper level of the stage. Painted backdrops provide the settings for most of the scenes.

The show's most memorable songs include "If Ever I Would Leave You," "The Seven Deadly Sins," "How to Handle a Woman" and, of course, the title tune.

A talented cast of 32, plus three dogs, fills the stage at Poway Center for the Performing Arts. A few sound and lighting glitches marred opening night, along with stagehands onstage when the scenes are getting under way, but overall it is a worthy production, well told and well acted.

Members of the Society of Creative Anachronism, dressed to the hilt in medieval apparel, were scattered throughout the audience on opening night. Several in the cast, including Farrell, are active in the worldwide organization.

"Camelot"

When: 7:30 July 13-15; 2 p.m. July 16

Where: Poway Center for the Performing Arts, 15498 Espola Road, Poway

Tickets: $15 to $35

Information: (858) 748-0505

Web: www.powayarts.org