The Lerner and Lowe production opened in December 1960 on Broadway, and it wasn't long before the idealistic King Arthur, with his Knights of the Round Table, was being compared to the idealistic young president then occupying the White House—for one brief, shining moment.

Camelot is indeed about idealism—the pure but ill-fated love between Queen Guenevere and Lancelot, that knight's respect and affection for King Arthur, and a magician who teaches the king as a boy to value peace and honor. And ineveitably—a scheming knight who plots to destroy Arthur's dream.

The clever lyrics play with the traditions of the time with such rousing pieces as "The Lusty Month of May," "The Seven Deadly Virtues," and "Fie on Goodness!"

The Saratoga Drama Group, marking its 40th season, promotes itself as a group of "people trying to have fun," but for all the fun, the group has earned a serious reputation for highly professional presentations. In this performance, David McCaleb plays Arthur; Cipriana Williams is Guenevere and Nick Nakashima plays Lancelot. The wicked Mordred, who gets some of the best lines, is played by David Shumway. Costumes include custom-built armor by Bill Edgin.

The Sept. 14 opening night performance, priced at $20, is followed by a champagne reception. All other Friday and Saturday night performances are $18, with Sunday matinees priced at $16.

For ticket information, call 408.882.5099 for the 24-hour voice mail or visit www.sdg.to/.