There's no family more dysfunctional than the British monarchy. I've been hearing a lot about them recently through Shakespeare's history plays
Henry IV Part I,
Henry V, and
Richard III.
The Lion in Winter takes place a few centuries and generations before the earliest of these plays, but was written in 1966 by James Goldman, so it has a more contemporary feel. The family of Henry II on Christmas of 1183 is about as dysfunctional as it gets. And while hopefully our family members don't imprison, threaten to kill, and raise armies against each other, we can all relate to that awkward holiday dinner that goes awry. This contemporary and relatable feel, along with a truly fantastic cast of local and national talent, sharp direction, and a stunning set, make the
Guthrie Theater's production of The Lion in Winter a highly entertaining evening, and a spicy counterpoint to
the sweet fare across the hall.
