Tournament of Kings Makes Its "Royal" Debut

The hottest new production show in Las Vegas has burst onto the Las Vegas scene. "Tournament of Kings" is now playing and brings with it medieval flair, jousting, invading armies, dragons, fire-wizards, and dinner.

The new $1 million production is a dinner show and features new sets, lavish costumes, and theatrical jousting and sword fighting. The show plays in King Arthur's arena, which has undergone a $1.2 million renovation.

"Tournament of Kings" is a fantastic excursion into the intrigue and excitement of medieval Europe. Set amidst the backdrop of a fanciful feast filled with magic and might, this colorful romp of dancing and celebration quickly takes a sinister turn. The opening sequence features the entire cast in a procession of marching and syncopated drumming, setting the tone for an incredible evening.

The story begins when Arthur gathers his fellow kings of Europe for a no-holds-barred competition to honor his son Christopher. The rival kings begin the games, riding their faithful steeds through rounds and rounds of medieval sport, testing their skills of agility, strength, and endurance.

As the final event winds down and the victorious king takes his celebration lap, the evil fire wizard Mordred attacks, darkening the festivities and threatening to throw the land of Avalon into an age of fire and shadows. Kingdoms clash, beasts attack, and fire burns bright. Beneath it all, a hero falls, but his spirit carries on as the forces of good band together to lead might tr8iumph over evil's wretched minions.

The original concept of the show was idealized by the Peter Jackson. "Tournament of Kings" in its entirety has been produced by his son Patrick of Royal Productions, Inc. and has been realized by Patrick and his creative team: Doug Baker, script; Sandi Ross, associate producer; and Philip Shelburne,director. Baker stars as "Master of the Lease." Also starring Dave S3wan as "King Arthur" and Anthony Hansen as "Christopher." Completing the cast are Paul Fidler as "Mordred," Vern Ursenbach as "Jester," seven kings, a small army of musclemen and ground fighters, eight dancers, and acrobats.

The main star of the show is the audience itself, which is led through a chorus of cheering and singing. "Audience participation is an integral part of the show," said director Shelburne. "They will be singing, cheering, and up on their feet for this show.

Stunning costumes by Emmy-nominated French designer Michel Fresnay drape each cast member in medieval authenticity. The original score, composed by Scot Rammer and arranged by Joseph Blaum, is a sweeping, emotional work, leading audiences on a musical journey as exciting as the jousting. Fire-blazing pyrotechnics light up the arena numerous times as Mordred, the fire wizard, tries to stake his claim in Avalon.

The showroom has been completely renovated, with new décor, new lighting, and a new sound system. The audience enters the arena across a marble and stone floor and is greeted by a full-size shining suit of armor. Large icon chandeliers and glimmering sconces light visitors' paths and they make their way to their seats in one of eight sections, one for each "country" represented by the battling kings. Standing guard over each section is an illustrious suit of armor. Stone and harlequin-patterned wallpaper adorn walls of the arena.

The new production replaces the long-running "King Arthur's Tournament," which played to sell-out crowds since it opened with Excalibur in June of 1990.

"Tournament of Kings" plays twice nightly at 6:00 and 8:30 pm., seven days a week. Reservations can be made by calling (702) 597-7600.

Excalibur is home to 4,008 rooms, "Tournament of Kings" jousting dinner show, the WCW Nitro Grill, and is owned by Circus Circus Enterprises Inc.