Monty Python’s Spamalot finally opened at Joburg Theatre, and brought with it all the unadulterated absurdity and silliness of the legendary comedy group.
Described as “the hit musical lovingly ripped off from the motion picture Monty Python and the Holy Grail”, the production presents a vision of King Arthur and his knights as never seen before.
In this funny, surreal re-imagining of the classic Grail Romances, England’s once and future king finds himself surrounded by a group of bumbling knights, the killer rabbit of Caerbannog, a bevy of showgirls, French people, and a diva of a Lady of the Lake.
King Arthur, played by Norman Anstey, his under-appreciated servant Patsy, played by Bongi Mthombeni, and his knights-errant must pass various tests on the quest to find the holy grail, including finding a shrubbery for the Knights who say Ni, doing battle with the Black Knight, staging a Broadway musical, and defeating the killer rabbit – mostly while singing the incredibly silly songs that made Monty Python a household name.
Avid Monty Python fans will recognise scenes and songs from not only Monty Python and the Holy Grail, but other films by the comedy group including The Life of Brian song, Always look on the bright side of life.
The Joburg Theatre production, directed and designed by Simon James, was visibly enjoyed by cast and audience, and included a ‘special appearance’ by Monty Python co-creator Eric Idle as God.
The production also features Michelle Botha as the Lady of the Lake, Liam J Stratton as Sir Bedevere, Grant Towers as Sir Robin, Adrian Poulsen as Prince Herbert, LJ Urbani as Sir Lancelot, and Clive Gilson as Sir Dennis Galahad.
The role of Sir Not-Appearing-In-This-Show, briefly played by a different audience member at each performance, was taken on by legendary South African musician Johnny Clegg the night this reporter attended.
Monty Python’s Spamalot will run until 10 August at Joburg Theatre, corner of Simmonds and Stiemens streets, Braamfontein.
