By Audrey Miller | Photo by Callie Lythgoe
Every family has their own baggage, and with that comes drama. “What family doesn’t have its ups and downs?” is a question we are all forced to ask ourselves, and which also appears as a line in The Lion in Winter, the spring play by the Susquehanna University Department of Theatre. While the show takes place on Christmas of 1183, the themes of betrayal, family politics, and power all seamlessly translate to our modern reality.
The final show of the school year was directed by Professor Erik Viker and had a small cast of seven performers. Professor Kevin Christopher Crowe acted alongside the talented group of Susquehanna students. This collaboration is part of the Experimental Acting Workshop, in which selected students in the acting program are given the opportunity to work alongside a faculty member.
Staged at the Degenstein Center Theater, performances were scheduled for April 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m, with a matinee performance on April 26 at 2:30 p.m.
Taking place at King Henry II’s castle at Chinon in France, the play follows the drama that impacts King Henry II’s three sons when he fails to name one of them successor to his throne. When his imprisoned wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine, is freed for the holiday, everyone comes together to force him to decide. Each motivated by their own desires, they reveal past secrets, betrayals, and even murder attempts.
The script was a standout, mixing historical language with modern humor. But what is a script without its vocalists? Each actor’s individual personality complimented their characters and brought the medieval drama to life.
Hannah Bower, who played King Henry II’s imprisoned wife Eleanor of Aquitaine, was extremely fun to watch. Bower allowed each gaze into space and smirk to add value to each scene. Her witty nature complimented her character’s sharp tongue. Bower was professional and committed to each line and laugh.
Kyra Campbell played Alais, the sister to Phillip, King of France, the fiancée to Richard Lionheart, and the mistress to King Henry II. Her character’s drama did not get in her way of delivering a stellar performance. There was one specific scene near the end of the first act where Alias has an emotional catharsis, refusing to be seen as obsolete. Campbell’s performance was strong and intense.
Professor Kevin Christopher Crowe’s professionality and experience enhanced the people around him. His demanding stage presence made the show come to life. Crowe’s powerful diction added layers to the performance as he moved through each line charismatically. This opportunity to work alongside a faculty member proved valuable as Crowe brought King Henry II’s complexity to life.
My favorite performance was by Ryan David Horst. Horst played Geoffrey, Henry’s most devious son. My eyes could not come off Horst every time he stepped on to the stage. His mischievous disposition added layers of quiet humor to each scene. It was obvious Horst put his all into this character as there was no detail out place. Whether it was the quick, cartoon-like steps or permanent raise of an eyebrow, Horst never failed to evoke laughter from the crowd.
Elliot Muller played Phillip, brother to Alias and King of France. Muller played Phillip with such complexity, balancing his quiet, snakelike observations with his dogmatic, intense reactions. Muller is always a favorite of mine to watch as he performs with such intentionality. Whether it is how uses his hands to compliment his tone or the way he allows each word to have specific weight, I am always eager to see him on stage.
Muller’s counterpart throughout the show, Nevahn J. Oliver, was also a standout. He played Richard Lionheart, one of the three sons to Henry. Oliver got lost in the drama and emotion that Richard faced while competing for the throne. His biting and loud temperament embodied that of a lion, the audience always unsure of his next move. Oliver, being a first-year, has a bright future ahead of him as his performance displayed a plethora of emotions and talent.
Finally, the third and youngest son, John, was played by Elias Powell. Powell’s youthful portrayal of the indecisive, awkward John was refreshing as his character’s comedic relief balanced the intensity the other characters faced. His comedic timing was unmatched, and Powell never allowed the intimidating characters around him to dull his electric presence.
Whether it was in the acting, set design, or the costumes the worn by stagehands in between scenes, attention to detail was a consistent factor in this truly thrilling performance. While the first act was longer than a traditional act, each scene flowed well and the whimsical energy never let up.
I encourage all readers, lovers of theatre, or anyone that can value talent and hard work to support the Susquehanna University Department of Theatre. Throughout the 2025-26 school year, all performances were spectacular. The 2026-27 mainstage season shows have been announced, and I highly recommend going to check them out.
For more information on next semester’s shows visit Theatre Productions – Susquehanna University.