Ellington

The Walker County Community Theater will be taken over by 17th century swashbucklers and French royalty as Back Alley Productions brings to life the timeless tale of “The Three Musketeers” July 20-21 and 27-28.

Based on the 1844 novel by Alexandre Dumas, the play tells of the adventures of three swordsmen of the disbanded French king’s guard, plus one young man who dreams of becoming one of them, as they journey to save the king from the scheming of Cardinal Richelieu.

“The audience will experience love, loss, war and betrayal,” director Kaylee Smith said. “In the end it seems their friendship is the only thing that will save Europe.”

Smith, who just turned 21 and is approaching her sophomore year at Lee University, said she’s really excited to push the envelope with the production’s acting and set design.

The set will extend out into audience seating and guests will feel a part of the play as scenes are acted out on the cobblestone aisles, she said.

“We want to immerse the audience as much as possible,” said Smith.

The daring adventure includes battle scenes, double-crossings, conspiracy and intrigue, but Smith assures the public that Back Alley’s lighthearted rendition is suited for a family audience. However, she does warn parents that there will be several death and sword fighting scenes.

The 20 participants who make up the play’s cast range in ages from 12-25.

“The cast is an extremely diverse group,” Smith said. “We have people from UTC, Dalton College, Walker and Catoosa County coming together to put on the play.

“We stay true to our slogan, ‘Theater for everyone.’ We like to give everyone an opportunity to be involved in the performing arts. It’s a good pull to strengthen the community.”

The play lasts approximately two hours and includes an intermission during which Musketeer themed food will be sold.

For more information or tickets sales visit backalleyproductions.org or call 706-621-9129.