how hammy is Spamalot?

"When you're chewing on life's gristle, don't grumble, give a whistle..." Good advice indeed. But when it comes to processed goods, is this Monty Python extravaganza looking tasty, or should Spamalot be left on the shelf?

What’s it like?
Just like that suspicious canned meat that tortured many a childhood lunchbox, Spamalot is nothing you can really describe until you’ve tried a slice. But to be fair, from the name, you know we’re not talking Shakespeare. In fact, if it’s at all possible, this stage show is even more ridiculous than the films and TV shows, which got the world spouting such nonsensical utterings as “ni” and banging on about shrubberies. Terry Gilliam's world-renowned Python animation style reigns supreme across the stage, (including the giant foot), and any fan won’t fail to be impressed with the surreal scenery.  Oh, and Eric Idle’s score will have you in stitches, so don’t sip your sneaky bev unless you’ve prepped yourself not to spit it all over the row in front!

What’s it about?
Billed as a loving rip off of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot basically revolves around the rather long-winded quest for the afore-mentioned article, with a whole host of stupidity along the way.  All the best Python gags are in there, including “The Bright Side of Life”, the Bringing out the Dead bit, (complete with a new song), the knights who say Ni and the infamous Round Table - now a glitzy casino affair complete with cabaret. 

Who’s in it?
The Lady of the Lake, who only gets a tiny mention in the film, plays a leading role here and adding impeccable comic timing and stitch-inducing musical warbling to the part is actress Hannah Waddingham.  She plays the love interest of King Arthur, brought to life by the loveable Tim Curry, who’s probably best known for his role as Dr. Frank N. Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975). Tom Goodman-Hill also stars as the devilishly handsome Sir Lancelot and Robin Hands gives good as the nice but dim Sir Robin.  It’s a cracking cast, actually. And although it will undoubtedly be viewed as less glam once Curry departs, the laugh-a-minute madness will more than make up for it.

What should I look for?
Diehard fans won’t miss the nod to the Lumberjack Song, reworked as a number with a different tune entitled “We are not dead yet”. About 70% of the two hour show relies on the best bits of the film, actually, but not surprisingly no one seems to care. This is definitely for the person who wouldn’t be seen dead singing along to a musical soundtrack. And why bother with the tunes anyway, when it’s easier to recite the dialogue you spent most of the 70s learning?

So what’s the verdict?
This is one for the people who’ve come to London to be entertained but can’t be bothered with a Llyod Webber slush-fest.  It’s hard to find fault with a Monty Python escapade because if anyone argues that ”it doesn’t have a plot”, well, it’s not supposed to, really.  “It doesn’t make sense!”  Well, of course it doesn’t.  “The sets are all wonky!”  Durr, they’re supposed to be.  Just go along in a good mood and don’t rain on anyone’s parade.  Monty Python has the kind of cult following that can’t be argued with; not on the telly, not in the cinema, and definitely not on the stage.  Even if you do object to a hundred strangers shouting “Ni” at each other during the interval. - Becky Wicks

To book your Spamalot tickets click here

Comments

[Peter Holder]

The review was good however you wrote 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot basically revolves around the rather long-winded quest for the afore-mentioned article, with a whole host of stupidity along the way. All the best bits from the film are in there, including “The Bright Side of Life”'

This song wasn't in the film. It was in 'The Life of Brian'

[Emma Metcalfe]

What do you mean - the sets are all wonky? They are ingenious and beautifully made! Have you actually seen this show?

[becky]

Hey Peter, you're right, it was in the Life of Brian, doh! I wonder why they put it in the Holy Grail musical. Well spotted, you must be a true fan ;-)

[Peter]

In response to becky I'm not a true fan but I did like the films and definately intend to see the musical soon. “The Bright Side of Life” is one of the most well known Monty Python songs and I'm sure it fits in well in the musical.

[Jayne]

If you can be bothered to read the above review rather than just skim it what he's actually said is: "All the best Python gags are in there,including “The Bright Side of Life"." So, there's no reference at all to this song being in the Holy Grail film!! Get your facts right!!

[Dave]

Oh dear - someone's taking Python too seriously! Fantastic show and made all the more enjoyable by the hummers and whistlers on the way out. It's just an all year round panto. Will certainly go again.

[Sandra]

Went on Friday 28th September 2007..Thanks lastminute.com for the GREAT seats, it was a fantastic surprise to be sat in the front row.

I'm not a Monty Python fan but thought the show was hilarious and would definately go to see it again and again and again.. Very clever, memorable songs and dance routines..what a turn up for the books to see Bill Ward in THAT role.. I thought that the songs, singing ability and vocal range of 'The Lady in the Lake' was amazing..