Monty Python and the Holy Grail is a comedy that many people have heard of. Whether it's someone quoting "Tis only a flesh wound" or the Knights who say "Ni", many people have some knowledge on the jokes or skits. And of course, there's a musical version. Because Broadway producers will eat up anything that has a history to attract audiences to the seats.
Spamalot premiered on Broadway in 2005. It won a Tony Award for Best Musical, traveled to the West End, and just had a Broadway revival last year.
Spamalot is about King Arthur gathering his famous knights and going on a quest to acquire the Holy Grail. Along the way he meets cheerleaders, knights, and rude French people. Oh My! And yes, it's just as chaotic and wild as you imagine.
I think Circle Theater has really pulled together quite a production that is well-oiled and efficient. There are over 120 costumes in this production. There are so many actors that play multiple other roles here and there and I think the transition is seamless. Jess Luiz and Val Fischer really came together in order to make sure everyone has their costumes for all the skits. I tip my hat to them.
With a cast of 20 actors, it takes a lot of coordination and cues. I just have to say kudos to all the backstage workers and staff in general who helped this production come to life. Some of these unsung heroes even had stage presence for certain scene changes and when they needed more bodies on stage for gags.
Will Gearring directed this production and I think he did a fine job with this source material. Parody musicals can tread a weird line, but I think he gets the source material and the silliness of Month Python skits.
Torrey Thomas had to choreograph some large ensemble songs and incorporate slapstick comedic bits. He did a fine job and the cast was able to execute it well and get the job done.
Speaking of the cast, I must say this. The one that blew me away in this production was The Lady of the Lake, played by Grace Avery. She was spectacular. Those belts and riffs had my jaw on the floor. She was funny and witty. Grace carried the character with a poise and elevation that made so much sense for the character. And her eleven o'clock number in the second act was funny and vocally powerful.
King Arthur, played by Stephen Huseby, was balanced and matter of fact. I think he did the job he needed and kept everything going as it should. The other knights who also were a delight to watch includes Sir Galahad (TJ Clark), Lancelot (Cameron Larson), and Sir Robin (Tyler Suttner). They all felt like they understood their character and committed to the bit. Some of them were also double cast in other roles as well. Every time they were on stage, it looked like they were having fun and I appreciate that.
Overall, I enjoyed my night at the theater. People around me were also laughing so that is also a good sign. I feel like Act 1 was a slow build up and then the momentum built up as the show went on. The second act dragged at moments, but I think the pacing is always a tricky thing in theater. The finale was cute and the audience got invited to sing along, which is always a nice touch in my eyes.
I think the humor would land best for people who enjoy physical comedy and silliness that's totally unserious. There were some jokes that felt immature, but again. This is Monty Python. It's par for the course.
There are some fun Easter eggs for people who enjoy musical theater. There were references to things like Les Miz, Sondheim, ALW, and Fiddler on the Roof. If you know musicals, then you'll get a cute, tiny cherry on top.
If you enjoyed Something Rotten, I think you'd also enjoy Spamalot. It's not a high-brow show, but if you want light entertainment with fart jokes and ever-changing wardrobes, this might be the ticket for you. You can see Spamalot at Circle Theater in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The remaining performances include July 17-21 / 24-27.
-L.I.
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