In SPAMALOT, the Meat Is Canned but the Laughs Are Real
For nearly 60 years, Monty Python has entertained audiences with its broad, sharp-hitting humor and physical comedy. Spamalot, by original Monty Python member Eric Idle and composer John Du Prez, combines some of the best comic bits from the comedy troop’s repertoire with catchy songs to create a rousing, rollicking musical that’s family friendly and sure to keep both new and familiar audiences laughing heartily. Solid performances and a few updates to reflect contemporary pop culture add to the show’s appeal and keep it feeling fresh.
Loosely based on the group’s popular film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the quick-paced musical follows King Arthur on his quest to recruit and assemble the knights of the Round Table and find the Holy Grail. Arthur’s cadre of knights includes the aspiring Broadway performer Sir Robin, who’s centuries ahead of his time and Broadway itself; the gallant and eager Sir Lancelot, who discovers his true self while trying to rescue a royal about to be forced into an unwanted marriage; and the handsome and popular Sir Galahad. Arthur summons the Lady of the Lake to explain how he became king, and they all dance and frolic at the castle until they are sent on their quest for the grail. A task which, interestingly enough, involves the production of a Broadway musical and a wedding (or two) to successfully complete.
Photos by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman
Steven Telsey is a proper British gent as our narrator and guide through the increasingly silly and abundantly funny romp through the familiar tale. Like most of the cast, he’s tasked with playing several characters, though most recognizable as the Historian. Ellis C. Dawson III is brash, presumptive, and eternally optimistic as King Arthur, and Blake Segal is hilarious as the king’s ever loyal, frequently put upon servant Patsy. Sean Bell is light on his feet as the aspiring Broadway star Sir Robin, Chris Collins-Pisano is eager to fight and prove his chivalry as Sir Lancelot, Leo Roberts is constantly posing and flexing as Sir Galahad – and a blustery villain as Prince Henry’s domineering father, and Amanda Robles is every inch the diva, with the vocal range and stage presence to back it up. The principles are joined by an enthusiastic and animated ensemble that gives its all to every bit, ensuring there’s plenty of laughter along with a few memorable tunes.
The band, with musical direction by Jonathan W. Gorst and featuring both touring and local musicians, keeps the tone upbeat and positive, moving the show forward with intention even during comically exaggerated numbers. Memorable, and often quite catchy and hummable, songs include the “Fisch Slapping Song,” “I Am Not Dead Yet,” “The Song that Goes Like This,” “Find Your Grail,” “Brave Sir Robin,” “His Name is Lancelot,” and the ever-popular “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” but there isn’t a clunker in the show. Multiple sight gags, flatulence, and clever visual bits, as well as always on-point direction and choreography by Josh Rhodes, ensure the show keeps the audience’s attention from start to finish. In fact, you should plan to arrive early to watch the clever animations during the preshow; they’re an unexpected delight, and an appropriate and affectionate nod to Monty Python’s Flying Circus, the group’s original television show.
With plenty of physical comedy and an amiable cast retelling a familiar story, Spamalot, at the Fabulous Fox Theatre, is family friendly and suitable for most audiences. Filled with the group’s offbeat but often perceptive humor, the story is light and breezy, the songs are cheerful and delivered with enthusiasm, and the laughter flows freely and constantly. There’s even a bit of a sing-along at the end to ensure you leave the theater looking on “the bright side of life” as you make your way back home.
