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Whether you grew up watching Monty Python and the Holy Grail, or if this will be your first foray into anything Monty Python… Monty Python’s SPAMALOT, playing now at The Pantages Theatre is an absolute must-see!
Monty Python’s SPAMALOT is a “musical lovingly ripped off from” the 1975 comedy film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, though for all the things taken verbatim from the film, there are plenty of new hilarious character arcs and characters to bring a fresh energy to the story while maintaining the farcical silliness you expect from anything Monty Python. The musical still tells the comically incorrect version of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, as they venture on a God-given quest to find the Holy Grail. But will they find the Grail? Is the Grail just a metaphor? Is the Grail really the friends we’ve made along the way? This show may just inspire you to find your grail.
First and foremost, what a cast! Many of the actors play multiple roles in the show. Chris Collins-Pisano was amazing, especially in his roles as The French Taunter and Sir Lancelot, both with starkly different characterizations, but both earning huge laughs from the audience. His performances in “Run Away” as The French Taunter was hilarious, but his physical comedy in “His Name is Lancelot” truly showcased his comedic range.
Sean Bell was wonderful as Sir Robin, portraying the hilariously uncomfortable awkwardness, yet warmness that you expect from a character who gravely misunderstood his assignment as a Knight. “You Won’t Succeed on Broadway”, one of two jabs at the theater industry, gained the same initially uncomfortable laughs earned from songs in Avenue Q and Book of Mormon, but by the end, Bell’s performance had the audience roaring. Blake Segal is wonderful as Patsy, with sharp comedy, and delightful vocals. Major Attaway shines like a crown as King Arthur, with dry comedic timing, facial expressions you could see from the rear orchestra, and an amazing vocal performance, he was phenomenal.
The standout, hands down, is Amanda Robles as The Lady of the Lake. Robles’ vocal performances were unbelievable, with a range of notes and styles that truly built the comedy of the character. Her comedic solo at the end of “Knights of the Round Table”, and her soprano work in “Diva’s Lament” were gold. Robles offers the perfect balance of grace, glamour, and slapstick that got the audience cheering each time her character walked out on stage.
Aside from it being clear that the performers were genuinely enjoying themselves playing these roles, the interactions they periodically had breaking the fourth wall with the audience and the orchestra were a delight. Even SPAMALOT Orchestra Director, Jonathan W. Gorst, Associate Director Shane Ffrench, and Drummer Brandon Wong had opportunities to create funny moments throughout the performance.
The set consists primarily of one practical castle facade and projections, and they go a long way. Scenic and Production designer Paul Tate dePoo III and Lightning designer Cory Pattak were able to create many locations and scenes with very few moving parts, which was both visually stunning and ensured transitions kept up with the pace of the comedy.
Overall, this is a wonderful show and whether this is your first time experiencing Monty Python or your 400th, Monty Python’s SPAMALOT shall not be missed or you may just have to face the knights who say “Ni!”
Spamalot is performing until April 12. For more info and tickets click here.
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