By Famous for their UK sketch comedy show, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, the British comedy troupe Monty Python found success in a variety of films, including Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Life of Brian. Often quoted, Monty Python and the Holy Grail is hailed as one of the greatest comedies of all time. In 2005, the film was adapted into the Tony Award-winning musical Spamalot.
The musical follows King Arthur and his squire, Patsy, as they round up men to help Arthur on his quest to find the Holy Grail. Along the way, they meet a variety of characters who become his knights, including Sir Lancelot and Sir Galahad, as well as the Lady of the Lake, who gave Arthur his sword and made him king. Spamalot is very much a sketch comedy show made into a musical of some of Monty Python’s greatest skits, all tied together through the common thread of King Arthur’s quest. Because it is all about the laughs, there is no deep character growth or extensive plot development. The best parts of the show are the witty banter, puns and engaging songs. But, even the songs that seem included simply because it is a musical are thoughtfully accompanied by splashy scenery and bright, intricate costumes that keep the audience engaged.
The cast is talented, but at times the main actors seem shortchanged or even wasted. King Arthur, played by Ellis C. Dawson III, is underutilized even though the plot rests in his hands. He serves as the straight man to the zany cast of characters running around the stage, but with Dawson’s voice and talent, the character should have had more to do. Amanda Robles is excellent as the Lady of the Lake, though her powerful vocal prowess is often sacrificed for comedic schtick rather than being allowed to fully shine. Blake Segal, as Patsy, is fun to watch and especially excels in the famous song “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.”
However, the true stars of the show were Steven Telsey and Chris Collins-Pisano. Both played a variety of roles, showcasing their immense comedic talent and vocal impressions. Telsey portrays eight different characters throughout the show and is distinct and hilarious in each one. Collins-Pisano shines as Sir Lancelot and the famous French Taunter, in addition to two other roles. Their hilarious comedic interactions carried the show and kept it from drifting into a series of merely so-so comedy sketches.
The costumes and set design are fantastic and bring a strong sense of whimsy to the musical. The lighting is well done, and the use of the LED screen impressively incorporates some of the famous Monty Python animated sequences and cartoons into the show. The ensemble is talented and consistently fun to watch, especially during the large dance numbers such as “Knights of the Round Table” and “You Won’t Succeed on Broadway,” which includes clever nods to famous Broadway musicals and performers.
Fans of Monty Python will especially appreciate the musical, while others will enjoy a funny evening at the theater. While the show lacks depth, its fast-paced humor, clever songs and energetic dance numbers make for an entertaining experience.
Monty Python’s Spamalot plays at the Fabulous Fox through May 17th.
Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman