James Goldman's The Lion In Winter is about nothing so much as legacy. The year is 1183. Henry II, who won the throne by strength of arms, aims to leave behind the one thing his life has lacked: prolonged, lasting peace.

Standing in his way? Pretty much everyone else. Three sons, each vying to be declared heir-not that any is likely to honor declared succession after his death. A Queen, Eleanor, whose primary goal is to thwart Henry in whichever direction he turns. A youthful French King, Philip, who's looking for whatever alliance will regain him the French lands held by Henry's troops.

The mortar of Lakewood Playhouse's production, directed by John Munn, is the barbed dialogue between Joseph Grant's Henry and Syra Beth Puett's Eleanor.

To read Joe Izenman's full review click here.

[Lakewood Playhouse, The Lion of Winter, through May 15, 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, $17-$23, 5729 Lakewood Towne Center Blvd., Lakewood, 253.588.0042]