Monty Python's SpamalotFollow

Saw this last night. For those of you who aren't aware, it's a musical adaptation of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. It's currently on a test-run in Chicago before it heads to Broadway. Written by Eric Idle, starring Tim Curry (King Arthur), Hank Azaria (Lancelot, and others), and David Hyde-Pierce (Sir Robin).

It basically follows the structure of the movie, although with some artistic license. Many of the classic exchanges remain intact (The French taunting, Knights who say Ni, etc.) Although they are done impeccably (as opposed to they way every Joe Schmo quotes them), this is actually the least entertaining part of the show, for enthusiasts who have seen the movie 100 times, anyway.

The real fun is in the original musical numbers, such as "I Am Not Dead Yet" and "This is the song that goes like this" (a parody of Andrew Lloyd Weber melodrama). "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" is dusted off and given a rousing treatment.

The Lady of the Lake (complete with Laker Girls) has an extended role. Her part is one of the driving forces behind the new scenes and material.

Also hilarious was the creative staging used to recreate scenes like the battle with the Black Knight, and the Killer Rabbit.

Anyway, I don't want to give away too much. I hate it when movie reviews spoil too much. So I'll just recommend it, should you get the chance to catch it on Broadway. Anyone who's a Python fan should enjoy it immensely. Non-fans will likely be non-plussed.

Sounds like it's time for me to take a trip to New York. I've never seen a Broadway musical, nor have I felt the need to (yeah, call me uncultured), until now that is.

I would definitely want to see it with the original cast, those headliners are all really good actors in my opinion.

I'd love to see that, I also think Tim Curry is hilarious and the Laker girls just gives me more incentive to want to see it.

I hope they record it and sell it so the 'uncultured' people can also enjoy it.

on a side note:

On the Holy Grail DVD, anyone ever watch it with the Henry the VII subtitles? fricking hysterical.

'ello Miss

I wish to register a complaint

Why ain't this on in London?

Hmm. Nobby has a week off and may be in NYC next week. I wonder. . . .

No, he writes childrens books.

You should have no problem finding Dr.Seuss books proof just go to the local Borders bookstore.

You know the place where you meet strange men in the restroom to play George Michael's eager faced ****-chugger.

Just ask the help desk and make sure you wipe the ***** of your face before you do.

Any idea how much longer it will be in chicago, I'd love to go see that.