Camelot was a kingdom built on peace and justice, but torn down with betrayal and war.

The conception and destruction of the famous fairytale kingdom can be seen in the Broadway musical of "Camelot," which plays at 2:30 p.m. Sunday in Kirkland Fine Arts Center.

With recognizable tunes such as "How to Handle a Woman," "If Ever I Would Leave You" and the title song "Camelot," the production makes for "a musical with serious drama," said Bob Brown, who plays the main character of King Arthur.

"There's certainly the music," Brown said. "But there's also a wonderful story in between all of the songs."

The story centers on King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, Queen Guinevere and Sir Lancelot.

The musical begins with an arranged marriage between a young Arthur and Guinevere, who eventually do fall in love with one another. While they reign as king and queen, Arthur establishes the Knights of the Round Table, whose goal is to right wrongs and fight for justice to bring peace and stability to the kingdom, according to the musical's press release.

Lancelot, a champion from France, joins the Knights of the Round Table and inadvertently falls in love with Guinevere, and she with him. War eventually breaks out when their secret affair is made public, and King Arthur's dream of Camelot dissipates.

"It's all about the power struggle of the throne," Brown said. "It's a very polished and enjoyable production of 'Camelot' for all ages."

The national tour of "Camelot," produced by Candlewood International, L.L.C., and Mainstage Artists Management, L.L.C., began touring October 1 in New Jersey and will continue on the road until April, Brown said.

At 52 years old, Brown began acting as a child and plans to continue venturing into theatrical acting, whether starring or directing a production.

"(Acting) is certainly a wonderful way to express one's self," he said. "To be able to make the audience laugh and cry and take them on a journey is a wonderful thing."

Brown said the audience will be impressed with the elaborate costumes and great set of "Camelot." He added that the plot creates reactions from audiences ranging from laughing to crying.

"I think they're moved and touched by it," he said. "I'm sure people will have a wonderful experience."

WHAT: "Camelot"

WHEN: 2:30 p.m., Sunday

WHERE: Kirkland Fine Arts Center, Decatur

TICKETS: $39.50, $34.50 for adults and $19.75, $17.25 for children; Kirkland Box Office at 424-6318 or online at www.millikin.edu/kirkland. $39.50, $34.50 for adults and $19.75, $17.25 for children; Kirkland Box Office at 424-6318 or online at www.millikin.edu/kirkland.

Alicia Spates can be reached at aspates@herald-review.com or 421-6986.