Based on T.H. White's "The Once and Future King," the musical about romance, sexual betrayal and budding democracy — all within King Arthur's mythical realm — is by Alan Jay Lerner (book and lyrics) and Frederick Loewe (music). Opening night will be Jan. 15.

The cast gathered by Emmy Award-winning director/writer/producer David Lee (co-creator of "Frasier" and director of the Ovation Award-winning production of Can-Can at Pasadena Playhouse) includes Will Bradley as Mordred/Squire Dap, Doug Carpenter as Lancelot, Seth Daly as Tom, Zachary Ford as Sir Lionel, Richard R. Segall as Sir Dinadin, Shannon Stoeke as Arthur, Shannon Warne as Guenevere and Andrew Ross Wynn as Sir Sagramore.

"David Lee…has a fresh and exciting take on the material that will give the show new vitality and a much stronger dramatic focus," stated Pasadena Playhouse artistic director Sheldon Epps. "I am very pleased that we will be collaborating on this timeless musical, which could not be more timely than at this very moment in our country's history."

Lee explained in production notes, "In the previous incarnations of Camelot there has always been an emphasis on pageantry, big sets, stunning costumes with lots of armor and ladies in pointy hats, a large chorus of singers and dancers, funny mythical characters and even a dog; much of this to stunning effect. But even though the story has large philosophical resonance, it really is a rather small tale about the relationship among three human beings — Arthur, Guenevere and Lancelot. A couple of years ago, just for fun, I went through the script and eliminated everything that did not contribute directly to telling their story. What I was left with was the same beautifully written tale, but one that now seemed more direct, clearer and more emotionally accessible. Plus it was shortened enough that I could afford to add back music that is often cut."

Joining the creative team with Lee are Mark Esposito (choreography), Tom Buderwitz (scenic design), Maggie Morgan (costume design), Michael Gilliam (lighting design), Vikram Kirby (sound design), Christy Crowl (musical director), Michael Donovan (casting), Jill Gold (production stage manager), and Lea Chazin (assistant stage manager).

Pasadena Playhouse is at 39 South El Molino Avenue in Pasadena, CA. For information, call (626) 356-7529 or visit www.Pasadenaplayhouse.org.