Monty Python’s Spamalot

Book and lyrics by Eric Idle, Music by John Du Prez & Eric Idle

Director/Choreographer: Michelle Levall

Music Director: Laura Ashley

Reviewed by: Sara Jones

Long, long ago (last Friday), in a land far, far away (downtown Plano), there gathered a group of knights, fair maidens, and a king, among others. They congregated to perform an epic tale of the most serious subjects known to man!

Oh wait, no… no… sorry, that’s not this one. That’s some other show. THIS show is 100% silliness from beginning to end. THIS show is the stage production, Monty Python’s Spamalot!

The Narrator (Heath Bromley) sets the stage letting us know we’re in England, 932 AD. His introduction is promptly followed by a musical number all about Finland and fish slapping, which he interrupts by yelling, “I SAID ENGLAND!!!”

England has been hit hard with the plague and King Arthur (Aaron Gallagher) has taken the throne after being gifted Excalibur (his trusty sword) by the Lady of the Lake (Laura Alley). God then sends him on a quest to find the Holy Grail and he sets off with his faithful servant, Patsy (Jared Duncan) and his motley crew of knights. Their journey through England is a series of hilarious interactions with locals and foreigners alike, and fraught with additional tasks such as finding a shrubbery and putting on a Broadway musical without any Jewish people.

Throughout the show, the Lady of the Lake and her “Laker Girls” (as the dancers are referred to at one point) interject with fun songs and dance numbers. Laura Alley’s voice is powerful – her range and control are impressive.

Other audience favorites were Sir Robin (the incomparable Eddy Herring), the violence and sparkle loving Sir Lancelot (Jordan Tomenga), the lovable Patsy (played by the hilarious Jared Duncan), and the beautiful young princes- er, I mean PRINCE – Herbert (Brendan Tetter).

The comedic timing and obvious camaraderie within the cast makes this entire performance a joy to watch. Costumes are top notch – especially impressive are the “Laker girls” who go from cheerleaders to can-can dancers to genies in what feels like the blink of an eye! Everything moved smoothly and felt effortless.

Spamalot is a well-known show with a huge following, and yet every company brings something unique to their interpretation. The Courtyard Theater is a wonderful location for this production and the direction and choreography from Michelle Levall are top notch. As the show encourages you to do, find your grail! Get your tickets quickly! This show runs Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm through April 16th. Tickets available at rcttheatre.com

Audience Rating: PG-13

Running Time: 2 hours with a 15 minute intermission

Accessible Seating: Available

Hearing Devices: Unavailable

Sensory Friendly Showing: Unavailable

Production Sound Level: Comfortable volume

Noises or Visuals to Prepare For: Some foul language, gesturing, innuendo, some flashing lights

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Sara Jones